Protection Orders can now include the protection of pets...

The law has changed so that pets can now be included in Protection Orders. This means the Family Court can make conditions to help keep pets safe where there has been family violence. If pets are included in a Protection Order, the person the order is against must not hurt, threaten, or take them.

Pets can play an important part in family violence situations. Someone may delay leaving an unsafe relationship because they are worried about what may happen to their pets if they leave them behind. Threatening or hurting pets is a tactic often used to control or frighten another person.

The Family Court can add a special condition to a Protection Order to protect pets. Protection Orders usually include three main rules: the person the order is against must not use violence against anyone protected by the order, must not contact them, and must not have weapons. The Court can add extra conditions when they are needed to help keep people, and now pets, safe.

When you apply for a Protection Order, you also need to file a supporting affidavit. An affidavit is a written statement that sets out the facts and evidence supporting your application. If you are worried your pets may be at risk, or if they have already been harmed or threatened, you should include that information in your affidavit. This helps the Police and the Family Court understand the situation and decide what protection conditions may be needed.

If you think you need a Protection Order, it is a good idea to speak with a family lawyer. A family lawyer can explain your options and help you prepare your application.

Leading law firms committed to helping clients cost-effectively will have a range of fixed-price Initial Consultations to suit most people’s needs in quickly learning what their options are.  At Rainey Collins we have an experienced team who can answer your questions and put you on the right track.

Please note that Rainey Collins is not contracted to provide Legal Aid, other than in the Treaty of Waitangi area.  We therefore are unable to take on any Civil or Family Legal Aid work. If you require Legal Aid in those areas, you can search the list of Legal Aid lawyers on the Ministry of Justice website.