What is an order of protection?

An order of protection is a legal order issued by a court specifically designed to protect individuals from harassment, stalking, domestic violence, or any form of harm. This legal instrument can prohibit the offender from contacting or approaching the victim, thereby providing a safety net for individuals who may feel threatened. Courts assess the situation and often require evidence or a specific reason for the issuance of such an order, underscoring its role as a tool for ensuring the victim's safety and well-being in a structured legal framework.

Options suggesting a recommendation for counseling or a general warning about illegal activities do not capture the legal and protective nature of an order of protection. Furthermore, allowing someone to carry a weapon does not align with the definition of such an order, which is focused on protection rather than weapon ownership. Thus, the option identifying an order of protection as a legal order issued by a court to ensure protection from harassment or harm accurately reflects its purpose and significance in legal proceedings.