Note The library cannot tell you what the law means for your situation.
If you have a protective order against someone and they violate the order, you can call 911. Law enforcement agencies must be aware of active protective orders.
Violating a protective order is a criminal offense, and the offender may be arrested.
A violation is a class A misdemeanor with some exceptions. The violation can become a felony if the defendant has been convicted of an offense against the applicant.
The violation can become a felony of the third degree if the defendant:
You cannot give someone permission to violate a protective order you have against them. Only the court can change the order.
An officer may arrest a person if the officer has probable cause to believe they violated a protective order. The police officer shall make an arrest if they witness the offense.
An officer can remain at the scene to verify the offense and prevent further violations.
A Texas court has the authority to enforce a protective order through contempt. The punishment for contempt of court can be up to $500 in fines, six months confinement in jail, or both.
The Protective Order Registry (PROTECT) began in late 2020 to help keep law enforcement informed of protective orders. This online registry is a collaboration between the Office of Court Administration, the Department of Public Safety, and the Texas courts.
The registry includes any protective orders made since October 15, 2020. Applications, orders, and modifications must be entered into the system within 24 hours.
Anyone can search the registry, but not all information is public. For example, only authorized users can view copies of protective order applications. Authorized users include:
The applicant may request to remove public access to information about their protective order.
According to federal law, valid protective orders have "full faith and credit" in the court of another state, tribe, or territory. Make sure to review your state's laws to see how your state enforces protective orders.
Note The library cannot tell you what the law means for your situation.