How do I address violations of a Utah Protective Order? Myths vs Facts

If you live in Utah and have a protective order — or worry someone may violate one — it’s essential to know your rights and options. Utah protective orders, sometimes called restraining orders, are legal tools issued by local courts to stop harassment, stalking, abuse, or threats (Utah Code § 78B-7-404). They can apply in cities from Salt Lake City to St. George, offering a clear path for protection and legal enforcement.

• Myth: Only physical contact is a violation.
  Fact: Even unwanted messages, calls, or showing up at work can be violations.
• Myth: Police won’t act unless there’s an emergency.
  Fact: In Utah, all violations must be reported and are taken seriously by law enforcement (Utah Code § 78B-7-408).
• Myth: Violating a protective order is just a civil issue.
  Fact: It’s a criminal offense in Utah, which can lead to arrest.

A violation happens if the person named in the protective order breaks any part of it — this could range from making contact to visiting your Provo home or workplace, or sending messages when all contact is forbidden. Always review your specific order; even indirect contact through third parties can be a violation. Keep a record of every incident, no matter how small, including date, time, place, and what happened.

1. Call the police immediately. Utah law requires law enforcement to act if a violation occurs, even if it seems minor in your area (see Utah Code § 78B-7-408).
2. Provide evidence. Share texts, call logs, witness names, or any documentation with the officers or the court.
3. Request a copy of the police report. This will help if you need to go to court in Salt Lake, Ogden, or elsewhere in Utah.
4. Inform the court. You may need to file a motion or appear at a violation hearing depending on your order type. Check with the clerk for your local Utah courthouse.

Imagine you live in Logan and have a protective order after a breakup. The individual sends you social media messages, and later shows up at your work parking lot. Even if they didn’t talk to you, this can be a violation. The police can arrest the violator on the spot, and the court may issue further penalties or extend the order for your safety.

Under Utah law, violating a protective order is a Class A misdemeanor, which can include up to a year in jail and substantial fines (Utah Code § 78B-7-404). The violation also creates a criminal record, and additional actions—like repeat offenses or violence—could result in felony charges. Penalties are enforced throughout Utah, whether in a small town or a major city. Judges take these cases seriously to deter repeat violations and keep survivors safe.

• Keep your protective order and incident notes in a safe, accessible place.
• Update police with current contact info so they can respond quickly.
• If you move within Utah, notify law enforcement and the court of your new address for protection continuity.
• Consider talking to a Utah attorney or victim advocate for extra support with court filings and hearings.

Utah courts investigate the facts of every alleged violation. Accidental or unintentional violations are taken seriously, but if a violation was clearly not willful (for example, an accidental encounter at Smith’s grocery in Ogden), the court considers the details. On the other hand, making a knowingly false report may lead to its own legal consequences. It’s vital to be accurate and truthful when reporting any violation.

Even with good intentions, contact by the restrained person is still a violation until the order is officially changed or lifted by a judge. If you both want to amend the order, you must file a formal request with the Utah court — never agree to informal arrangements. Otherwise, police can still arrest the violator regardless of your feelings.