In theory, Protective Orders are Court orders which are obtained by a party who is in fear of immediate physical abuse by a spouse or cohabitant. In reality, however, Protective Orders are almost exclusively used to obtain an upper-hand in either divorce or child custody litigation. Protective Orders do not follow the normal litigation process. An initial Protective Order is obtained without the knowledge or consent of the spouse or live-in significant other. If you have been served with a Protective Order, don't blow it off or treat it as unimportant. The violation of a Protective Order can result in you landing in jail or having supervised visitation (parent-time) with your children. Contact T.R. Spencer Law Office immediately for an appointment if you have been served with a Protective Order.