What is the typical remedy in Family Offense Proceedings?

• A. Contempt citation
• B. Protection order
• C. Mediation only
• D. Criminal indictment

Answer: (B)

Protection order. In Family Offense Proceedings the usual remedy is to obtain a protection order that prohibits the respondent from contacting or coming near the petitioner and may require them to stay away from the petitioner’s home, workplace, or school. These orders are designed to provide immediate safety, and a temporary (ex parte) protection order can be issued quickly if there is urgent danger, with a hearing later to determine longer-term terms. The order can also address related safety needs, such as protective provisions concerning children, custody or visitation arrangements, and exclusive occupancy of a residence. Contempt citations are used to enforce the protection order or other court orders, not the initial remedy itself. Mediation is not the remedy here because the priority is protective relief for safety. A criminal indictment is a separate criminal action, not the civil remedy issued in this family proceeding.