Protection from Domestic Violence in Utah

An act of domestic violence could lead to civil court action, criminal court action, or both. So first, let’s make sure you understand the difference between civil and criminal court processes. If someone applies for what is commonly referred to as a restraining order, protective order, or civil stalking injunction, then those are either exclusively or typically civil court matters. Because they are filed in civil court, that means that the person seeking relief from the court files against the person from whom he or she is seeking protection. The person seeking relief is called the petitioner. The person from whom the petitioner is seeking protection is called the respondent.