If you are facing a high-conflict divorce, you may worry about your spouse’s actions during and after your separation.
Whether your spouse is physically or emotionally abusive or you believe he or she may try to take advantage of you financially, a Temporary Protective Order may provide some peace of mind while you navigate an already stressful situation.
What is a Temporary Protective Order?
Before your divorce is final, your spouse may have access to your children as well as shared assets. Under a temporary protective order, the court may prohibit him or her from taking certain actions while your divorce is ongoing, including:
- Relocating with your children
- Selling or transferring shared property
- Canceling insurance policies
- Withdrawing large sums of money from bank or retirement accounts
- Using marital assets as collateral
If your spouse has been physically or psychologically abusive, your TPO may also act as a temporary restraining order that forbids him or her from direct or indirect contact with you and your children. In addition to ordering your spouse to maintain physical distance, the TPO may prohibit him or her from communicating with you by phone or online.
How long does a Temporary Protective Order last?
The length of a TPO may depend on the type of protective order you request. If you are primarily concerned about financial actions your spouse may take, the TPO may last until your divorce is finalized. However, if your spouse is abusive, the court’s protection order may remain in effect long after the official dissolution of your marriage.