Order for Protection
An Order for Protection (OFP) is a paper signed by a judge that can help to keep someone safe from an abuser. Tubman offers assistance to people who have experienced abuse and want legal help to stay safe. Our advocates help you identify options and describe the process of obtaining an OFP. We can help you fill out the paperwork and go to court with you if necessary.
After you file for an OFP in Hennepin, Ramsey, or Washington county, your advocate may refer you to Tubman’s ProBono Safety Project for free legal representation at your OFP hearing. Volunteer and staff attorneys can represent eligible victims who have compelling needs for legal assistance at OFP hearings in Hennepin, Ramsey, or Washington counties.
The law defines domestic abuse as physical abuse, sexual abuse, or terroristic threats. In order for Tubman’s legal advocates to help, you must be experiencing some form of domestic abuse. Emotional abuse is not considered domestic abuse under the law. People who live with an abuser or are related to an abuser can ask the court for an OFP. The relationship must be one of the following:
- Wife, husband, ex-wife, ex-husband
- Parent, child, or any blood relative
- Girlfriend, boyfriend, domestic partner, ex-girlfriend, ex-boyfriend
- Persons who live together (roommates)
- Persons who used to live together
- Persons who have a child or an unborn child in common
For assistance with an Order for Protection
For assistance filing an Order for Protection, you can click the button below and submit a request to Tubman's Legal Services team.
You can also leave a voicemail at Tubman's Civil Cases voicemail box, and an advocate will return your call as soon as possible. The phone number is 651.789.6730. To connect with other available services, you can call Tubman's 24-hour resource and crisis line at 612.825.0000.
