What is a Police safety order?

General information from Lawmateanz

In New Zealand, Police can issue a Police safety order if they have reasonable grounds to believe family violence has occurred or may occur, even if no one is arrested.

It requires the person it's issued against to leave the home immediately and stay away, and not to contact or be violent towards the person protected, for up to 10 days.

The person protected doesn't have to agree for Police to issue it. It gives some breathing space to get help, safety plans and advice, including about a protection order.

Breaching a Police safety order can lead to the person being taken into custody and brought before the court.

If you're in immediate danger, call 111. Women's Refuge (0800 733 843), Shine (0508 744 633) and Community Law Centres can help with next steps.

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