The details of the restrictions that a restraining order places on an individual involved in a domestic violence case can be found in Section 15-15-3 of Rhode Island’s General Laws. Immediately after an order is issued, the defendant that it is against must:
- Vacate his or her household immediately
- Refrain from the contacting the person who petitioned for the order at home, on the street, or in any other circumstance
- Surrender custody of any minor children
Additionally, the court may order one against whom a restraining order has been issued in a domestic violence case to pay child support for a period of up to 90 days. It may also require, once a hearing has been held, that one surrenders any firearms that he or she owns.
Violation of a restraining order is considered to be a misdemeanor offense and is punishable by one year of imprisonment and/or fines of up to $1,000. A restraining order issued due to an incident of domestic violence can be valid for up to three years.