Sep 12, 2022

What Happens When You Violate a Restraining Order?

Dallas Restraining Order

Restraining orders are commonplace when two parties cannot resolve their issues amicably or sexual/physical violence is involved and the law needs to step in.

Restraining orders in Dallas are binding legal orders that keep citizens safe and come with serious consequences when broken.

At 1st Call Bail Bonds, we see a lot of arrests that come out of restraining order violations. Let’s take a look at the legalities behind a restraining order and how violating one can land your family at a Dallas bondsman’s doorstep.

What is a Restraining Order

Restraining orders are also known as Protective Orders. They come into play when a person has been harassed, sexually, or violently abused.

If there are grounds for the incident to reoccur, a party can file for a Protective Order with the local courts.

It’s free to file and get the process started.

Standard Restraining Order Features

When a judge orders a restraining order against another party, the terms are usually as follows:

  • The party cannot be within a certain number of feet from the filing party
  • The party cannot contact the other party
  • The party cannot follow or harass the other party

Charges Involved with a Restraining Order Violation

Once a restraining order is in place, the offending party should stick to the order and stay away.

Violating a restraining order is a crime. Restraining orders are bound by state and federal laws. Thus, if you breach the boundaries of your restraining order, you could face charges that lead to jail time and the need for a Dallas bail bond.

If you’re arrested for restraining order violations, there are several possible outcomes based on your criminal history:

  1. A first-time violation is a Class A misdemeanor. If convicted, you could face up to one year in prison and fines of up to $4,000.
  2. Two or more previous convictions ramp up the time you’d serve. Multiple offenses can lead to prison sentences of up to 10 years.

How Much is Bail for a PO Violation?

In most cases, a person arrested for a restraining order violation will have the opportunity to make bail. Most amounts are set at $5,000 but can vary depending on circumstances.

The bail amount for a restraining order violation depends on two conditions:

  1. Call or walk into 1st Call Bail Bonds
  2. Have necessary information on hand: the person’s full name, the jail where they’re being held, a booking report, the charges, and any other information about the arrest.
  3. Complete a bail bond application
  4. Meet the agent at the jail to post bail!

It’s that easy!

Get Help Today with a Bail Bond from 1st Call Bail Bonds

If you or a loved one have been arrested in Dallas, make 1st Call Bail Bonds your first call.

Our experienced bondsmen can help answer your bail bond process questions and complete your application quickly.

Our Dallas office is open 24/7 and can help you with any bail amount.

Contact us today to start the application process.