October is domestic violence awareness month

By By

Domestic Violence Claims 23 Lives in 2013
The Utah Domestic Violence Coalition reviews cases each year and they released that there were 23 domestic violence deaths in the state of Utah in 2013 with the victims ranging from 32 to 85 years old. Last year saw a decrease in the number of domestic related deaths from a total of 30 the year before. One tool victims can use to protect themselves is to obtain a protective order from the courts. A judge issues a protective order and it is designed to provide immediate protection to a victim of domestic abuse. It prohibits an abuser from having any contact with the victim, from threateningthe victim, or from entering onto the property of the victim. It is a crime to violate the protective order.
An Ex Parte Protective Order can be issued the day the victim asks for it. Once the abuser is served a copy of the order, it is in effect until a court hearing is held and the judge decides if a Protective Order is warranted. The Protective Order is valid until modified by the court. A judge can also order civil judgments, such as parent-time, that last for 150 days. The following are instructions on how to obtain a protective order: 1. Fill out a Protective Order Petition with the District Court nearest to where you live or where the abuse took place. Court clerks can assist victims with this process or locally call Kathy at 381-4743 for help. 2. Once a petition is filled out by a victim, a judge will review it and decide if immediate action is required. If so, the Ex Parte Order will be issued. The court clerk will then set a court hearing within 20 days at which time the victim and the abuser are to appear. 3. At the court hearing, the judge will decide whether to extend the protective order. There is no fee to file the petition, obtain a copy of the order, or have a protective order served. Remember that this tool is available if you, a family member, or a friend is experiencing domestic violence and needs to plan for their safety.
The Emery County Domestic Violence Coalition is planning an event on Oct. 25.
Zumba Event
Saturday, October 25 at 9 am Emery County Rec. Center in Castle Dale. Join us for our Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Event. ZUMBA and Nail Painting. Special Guest – Misty Snyder Door Prizes $5 donation or six guests for $25 All Proceeds go to Emery County Domestic Violence coalition.