A recent conversation revolved around a common misconception when it comes to domestic violence injunctions - they are not usually mutual. When a domestic violence injunction is put in place it acts like a one-way wall. This means that the person who got the injunction (petitioner) is not prevented from contacting the person against whom the injunction is against (respondent), while the respondent IS prevented from contacting the petitioner. This unfortunately often leads the respondent to think it is ok to answer the petitioner’s call or text. This then leads to the petitioner being arrested on a criminal charge for violating the injunction.
I always tell respondents to ignore the petitioner’s existence until they receive a court order stating otherwise even if the petitioner contacts them about winning the lottery and wanting to share the money. For petitioners wishing to have the injunction removed, I give the same advice so that they do not open the respondent up to criminal charges. And as always, if you are unsure then seek legal advice from an experienced attorney.