Violating a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO or “50B”) in North Carolina can lead to criminal charges, even if no new physical violence has occurred. If you are accused of violating a protective order, you face serious legal and personal consequences. Attorney Jake Kruger understands and appreciates the intersection of domestic violence protective order law and criminal law, and advocates strategically to protect your rights.

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What Is a DVPO (50B) Violation?

A Domestic Violence Protective Order (50B) is a court order designed to protect alleged victims from abuse. If you violate the terms of this order, this may constitute a separate crime. A violation can include:

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• Contacting the protected person when the order prohibits it

• Visiting or being present at a location the order bars you from

• Communicating with a protected individual through third parties when direct contact is restrained

• Ignoring other specific conditions imposed by the protective order, such as no harassment or stalking
   

Violating a valid DVPO (50B) is a Class A1 Misdemeanor, and is treated very seriously in North Carolina criminal court and a conviction can lead to both jail time and fines.

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Penalties for DVPO (50B) Violations

When someone is convicted of a DVPO violation, the court may impose:

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• Up to 150 days of jail

• Fines, potentially up to or exceeding $1,000, depending on the case

• Probation, commonly for up to 24 months, with strict conditions, such as required batterers’ intervention courses, no contact with the protected party, and compliance with order terms. Violating probation can carry additional consequences
   

Common Defenses to DVPO (50B) Violations

Depending on the facts of your case, there are often several lines of defense available. Possible defense strategies include:

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• Arguing that you were unaware of the order’s existence or specific terms

• Demonstrating that the alleged contact was unintentional

• Proving that you did not receive proper notice of the order
   

Each case is unique, and your defense will depend on the exact terms of the protective order, how the alleged contact occurred, and what evidence the prosecution has.