What causes a protective order to expire?

A protective order is a legal remedy intended to prevent further harm to a victim by restricting the actions of the respondent. The expiration of a protective order typically occurs when the termination date specified in the order passes. Protective orders are often issued for a defined period, which can vary based on the nature of the order and the circumstances surrounding it.

When the termination date arrives, the order is no longer legally enforceable, meaning that the restrictions it imposed on the respondent come to an end. This aspect is crucial for understanding protective orders, as they are not indefinite; they require periodic review and renewal, depending on the situation’s ongoing risks and needs.

While circumstances such as a subject moving away, a request from the victim, or law enforcement's decisions may influence the dynamics surrounding a protective order, they do not directly cause the order to expire. Instead, the scheduled termination date is the defining factor for an order's expiration.