Overview

In North Dakota, a Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order (DCRO) is a civil remedy that does not require any family, household, or intimate relationship between you and the respondent. The focus is the conduct: intrusive or unwanted acts, words, or gestures intended to adversely affect your safety, security, or privacy. That makes the DCRO track the right fit for harassment and stalking-type patterns involving neighbors, co-workers, classmates, acquaintances, or even strangers. By contrast, relationship-based orders (like Domestic Violence Protection Orders) hinge on a defined domestic or intimate relationship and follow different statutory chapters and fee rules. A DCRO can impose no-contact in every channel (in person, phone, text, email, social media, or through third parties) and stay-away boundaries for your home, work, school, or other specified places. Judges can issue temporary (ex parte) relief quickly, then hold a prompt, noticed hearing where both parties can speak. If the court grants a final DCRO, it takes effect immediately, is entered for law-enforcement enforcement, and a violation is a criminal offense. The steps below explain how to confirm you’re on the correct track, prepare persuasive evidence, and navigate filing, service, hearing, and post-order enforcement—always keeping front-and-center that no relationship is required; only the conduct and its impact on your safety and privacy matter.

Who Can Apply

A Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order (DCRO) in North Dakota is available to any adult who has been subjected to intrusive or unwanted acts, words, or gestures that are intended to adversely affect their safety, security, or privacy. You do not need to have a specific relationship with the respondent—no marriage, cohabitation, or family connection is required. This key distinction sets DCROs apart from Domestic Violence Protection Orders, which apply only to defined relationships. If the conduct comes from a stranger, acquaintance, co-worker, classmate, neighbor, or anyone with whom you have no household or family tie, the DCRO is the correct track under N.D.C.C. § 12.1-31.2-01.

Parents or legal guardians can also apply on behalf of a minor child who is a victim of such conduct. The petition must be filed in the North Dakota district court in the county where either party lives or where the harassment occurred. The petitioner files a sworn statement describing specific incidents, their effect, and any supporting details such as police reports, screenshots, or witness statements. The law requires only that you show “reasonable grounds” that the acts occurred and were intended to undermine safety or privacy. You are not required to prove physical harm, prior police involvement, or an ongoing relationship.

Before filing, confirm that your facts meet the statutory definition of disorderly conduct: intrusive or unwanted acts, words, or gestures intended to adversely affect another person’s safety, security, or privacy. Peaceful picketing, lawful protests, or other constitutionally protected expression cannot form the basis for a DCRO. If your case involves domestic violence or sexual assault within a defined relationship, a different protection order may apply instead. The North Dakota Legal Self Help Center provides comparison charts and standardized forms for each category of protective order.

Finally, if you cannot afford the filing fee (typically around $80), you may apply for a fee waiver using the court’s Affidavit of Indigency. Judges review these requests based on income and expenses to ensure that cost does not block access to safety. Once accepted, your case moves forward immediately. The DCRO track ensures that every North Dakota resident—regardless of relationship, income, or background—can seek legal protection from harassment and unwanted contact.

Benefits of a DCRO

The Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order offers clear and enforceable protection without requiring a preexisting relationship between the parties. Judges can grant a temporary (ex parte) order the same day you file if your sworn petition shows reasonable grounds, providing immediate safety while the court schedules a full hearing. The final order may last up to two years and can strictly prohibit the respondent from contacting or approaching you in any way—including phone calls, texts, social media, or messages through friends. It can also impose geographic restrictions, such as staying 100 yards away from your home, workplace, or school. These directives create bright-line boundaries that law enforcement can enforce on sight.

DCROs are intentionally accessible. You do not need an attorney to file; the North Dakota Courts website provides free, step-by-step instructions and standardized forms you can complete online or on paper. You can attach exhibits such as screenshots, emails, police reports, or witness statements to show the pattern of behavior. Courts and clerks are accustomed to self-represented petitioners and can explain procedural steps (without giving legal advice). Many advocacy organizations also assist victims in preparing paperwork and organizing evidence.

A crucial benefit of the DCRO framework is immediate enforcement. Once the judge signs the order, it is entered into statewide and national law-enforcement databases. Police officers anywhere in North Dakota can arrest a respondent who violates it based on probable cause alone, without requiring you to initiate another civil case. Violations are criminal offenses—specifically, a Class A misdemeanor—punishable by up to 360 days in jail and fines up to $3,000. This strong enforcement mechanism deters repeat harassment and provides you with meaningful peace of mind.

Finally, the DCRO process reinforces the state’s public-safety goal of ensuring that every person, not just those in family or domestic settings, has access to judicial protection from harassment. Whether the unwanted conduct comes from a neighbor, a former friend, or a complete stranger, the DCRO track delivers a fast, formal, and legally enforceable remedy that restores personal security and sets clear, court-ordered boundaries.

Step 1: Confirm the DCRO Track—No Relationship Needed, Conduct Matters

Begin by anchoring your strategy to the definition of disorderly conduct: intrusive or unwanted acts, words, or gestures intended to adversely affect someone’s safety, security, or privacy. That definition centers on the respondent’s behavior and intent, not your relationship to them. If you are being followed to your car by a stranger after work, if a neighbor places threatening notes on your door, if a co-worker sends late-night messages implying surveillance, or if an ex-customer repeatedly appears at your storefront after warnings to stop—these are all situations where a DCRO can apply, even though there is no qualifying domestic relationship. The statute deliberately separates DCROs from domestic-violence or sexual-assault orders so that people outside intimate or household contexts still have a fast, enforceable remedy. This is why one of the first screening questions in any North Dakota self-help material is, “What is the relationship?” If the answer is “none,” “neighbor,” “co-worker,” “acquaintance,” or “stranger,” you’re almost certainly in the DCRO lane.

Next, check the exclusions. Constitutionally protected activity—like peaceful picketing or lawful public speech—cannot be the basis for a DCRO. The fact that speech is unwelcome is not enough; you must be able to describe conduct intended to undermine your safety or privacy. In practice, courts look for a pattern or a sufficiently serious incident that shows intent and effect. The more precisely you can state dates, times, locations, exact words, screenshots, and witnesses, the stronger your showing. Remember that a DCRO does not require physical injury or a prior police report; many granted orders are built on credible, well-documented harassment that has not (yet) escalated to assault.

Because no relationship is required, petitioners sometimes worry the court will ask, “Why didn’t you just block the number or avoid the person?” Your answer should be framed around safety and privacy: blocking numbers often triggers new accounts or in-person approaches; moving schedules can be impractical; and once the respondent has learned your routines or addresses, you need a court order to reset boundaries. A DCRO lets the judge draw bright-line rules the respondent must obey (no-contact in any form; stay-away distances; no indirect messages), and law enforcement can act quickly if those rules are broken. Early in your preparation, write down the specific relief you need: the addresses that require protection, the communication channels to be banned, and any third-party relays to stop. You are not required to have a relationship with the respondent to ask for this relief; you are required to show a factual basis that the conduct meets the statutory definition and is likely to continue without an order.

Finally, verify venue and court. DCROs are filed in district court, not municipal court. Venue is typically where you live, where the respondent lives, or where the conduct occurred. If you’re unsure, call the district clerk and say you’re filing a DCRO; clerks handle these regularly and can confirm the correct filing location and any local procedures. If cost is a concern, know that a filing fee is commonly required for DCROs but can be waived for indigent petitioners. The no-relationship rule does not affect fees; it simply determines that the DCRO track is available to you based on conduct, not relationship.

Step 2: Build a Conduct-First Evidentiary Record that Proves Intent and Impact

Because the DCRO pathway turns on what happened, your goal is to present the judge with a crisp, chronological record that shows (1) specific intrusive or unwanted acts, words, or gestures; (2) the respondent’s intent to adversely affect your safety, security, or privacy; and (3) the impact—fear, disruption of daily life, or invasion of privacy. Start with a timeline that lists each incident by date, time, location, who was present, and what exactly occurred. Under each entry, reference the proof you will attach or bring: screenshots, photos, security-camera stills, call logs, voicemail transcripts, emails, DMs, and any incident or case numbers. When the relationship between you and the respondent is “none” or “acquaintance,” specificity becomes even more important; it shows this is not a private dispute but a pattern of unlawful intrusion any person could suffer.

Gather digital evidence carefully. Export text threads to PDF, preserving timestamps and contact identifiers. Take clean screenshots of social-media messages and capture profile URLs or usernames (harassers often change display names). If you received anonymous accounts contacting you after blocks, document the sequence so the judge sees evasion attempts. Save voicemail files and prepare short transcripts for the record, highlighting threatening phrases. If you have video or photos—for example, the respondent loitering near your building—note camera placement and time overlays. Judges do not expect cinematic quality; they want authenticity and legibility. If your workplace or apartment complex has security footage, ask for date-stamped clips covering the key events and request a letter from the property manager authenticating the footage.

Include any third-party corroboration. If a neighbor walked you to your car because the respondent was parked outside with lights off, ask that neighbor for a short witness statement with their contact info. If a co-worker observed repeated unwanted drop-ins, ask them to write a paragraph describing what they saw and when. If you made police calls—even if officers could not locate the person—obtain the event numbers. These details show the pattern is real and not speculative. When the court sees a stranger-or-acquaintance situation supported by neutral witnesses or official logs, your credibility grows.

Now translate the record into the petition narrative. Use plain, objective sentences: “On June 2 at 10:41 p.m., I received five messages in six minutes from the respondent’s account saying, ‘I know when you leave work,’ ‘Answer me or I’ll come over,’ and ‘I saw you with a man at 5:30.’ I blocked the account. On June 3 at 7:12 a.m., a new account sent, ‘Blocking won’t help. I’m outside 4B now.’ I called 911 (event #2345). When I opened my door, the respondent’s car (WA-12345) was parked by the stairs. Exhibit B contains the screenshots and photo.” This kind of writing avoids conclusions like “he’s dangerous” and instead shows danger through facts. End your narrative with a paragraph on impact: lost sleep; altering your commute; avoiding the laundry room at night; asking security escorts; installing cameras; changing phone numbers. Impact demonstrates why court-ordered boundaries are necessary.

Finally, draft a relief checklist that aligns with your facts: (a) no contact in any form, including electronic and social-media messaging and through third parties; (b) stay-away distances (for example, 100 yards) from your home, workplace, child’s school, gym, or other named places; (c) prohibition on surveillance or harassment at those locations; and (d) any clarifying terms (no following by vehicle; no visiting your building’s common areas; no tagging or mentioning you online). Because the DCRO does not depend on relationship status, do not dilute your ask—be precise and comprehensive. The clearer your requested boundaries, the easier it is for law enforcement to recognize and act on violations immediately.

Step 3: File in District Court, Request Temporary Relief, and Plan Service without Contact

Take your completed petition, exhibits list, and (if needed) fee-waiver forms to the district court clerk in the proper county. Tell the clerk you are filing a Petition for Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order and that you also request a temporary (ex parte) DCRO because ongoing conduct endangers your safety or privacy. Ex parte simply means the judge can grant short-term protection based on your sworn showing without waiting for the respondent to appear. Emphasize the freshest and most alarming incidents in your packet; judges reviewing emergency requests often triage based on recency, repetition, and apparent intent to intimidate. If granted, the temporary order will impose immediate no-contact and stay-away rules and will set a hearing date where both sides can be heard.

At filing, address fees and waivers. Many DCROs require a filing fee, but the court can waive it if you submit an indigency affidavit. Ask the clerk whether the waiver decision will delay the judge’s review; in most counties, emergency protection proceeds without waiting for payment when credible risk exists. Obtain file-stamped copies of your petition and any temporary order. If the court issued temporary relief, request certified copies—keep one with you, give one to work or school security, and consider providing one to local law enforcement so dispatch confirms the order in their systems quickly.

Plan service of process immediately; you must not—and in many cases cannot—serve the papers yourself. Give the sheriff or an approved process server the respondent’s best address(es), apartment or suite numbers, workplace details, and practical notes (typical hours, vehicle description, gate codes). If the respondent is a stranger whose name you learned only recently, provide the identifying details you have (photos, social-media handle, phone number) and where they have been observed. Because the DCRO does not depend on a relationship, courts see many “stranger harassment” cases; sheriffs will use whatever reliable identifiers you provide to complete service safely. Ask for status updates; if the first address fails, quickly supply alternatives so the hearing is not delayed.

If the judge does not grant a temporary order, don’t conclude your case is weak; some judges prefer to hear from both sides under oath before granting restraints. Your focus then is to ensure timely service and to prepare meticulously for the hearing. Keep gathering fresh evidence if the respondent continues contact after filing. Avoid any direct interaction—no warning texts, no confrontations, no “I filed against you” messages. The point of the DCRO system is to place the burden on the court and law enforcement, not on you, to confront and correct the behavior.

Finally, think ahead to safety logistics on the hearing day. Ask the clerk whether remote appearance is available if you fear an in-person encounter. Confirm where to check in, what security screening to expect, and how to lodge additional exhibits that arise after filing (for example, new messages that arrive this week). If you have a temporary order, carry a certified copy; if there is a violation on courthouse grounds, deputies can intervene immediately. With filing complete, temporary relief considered, and professional service underway, you are positioned to move decisively into hearing preparation—still on the DCRO track where no relationship is required, only proof of conduct and its effects on your safety and privacy.

Step 4: Serve the Respondent Properly and Maintain No Contact

Once your petition and any temporary order are accepted by the court, the next step is service of process—legally delivering the paperwork to the respondent. This ensures due process and gives the respondent formal notice of your claims and the hearing. Because a DCRO does not depend on any relationship, proper service becomes even more crucial: it is the respondent’s only official notification that they are subject to potential legal restrictions. The North Dakota Rules of Civil Procedure specify that you, the petitioner, cannot serve the papers yourself. Instead, the sheriff’s office or an authorized process server must complete delivery and file a written proof of service.

Start by verifying exactly what needs to be served: the filed petition, any temporary order, and the notice of hearing. Provide the sheriff or process server with the respondent’s best physical address, work location, or any place they are known to frequent. If the person is a stranger, share any identifiers—vehicle descriptions, online profile information, or photos from security footage—to help officers locate them safely. Many counties have a civil process division that handles DCRO service and can confirm when and how delivery was attempted. Ask for a tracking number or written log of the attempts.

Timing matters. Your hearing notice will specify the minimum number of days that must pass between service and the hearing date. If the respondent is not served in time, the hearing could be postponed. Follow up with the sheriff’s office a few days before the hearing to ensure completion. If service fails because the respondent cannot be located, promptly notify the clerk and request another address or alternative method permitted by court rules. Judges appreciate petitioners who document all diligent efforts at service; it demonstrates your seriousness and helps prevent dismissal.

Safety remains paramount during this phase. Do not attempt to hand papers to the respondent yourself, even if you encounter them. Avoid confrontations or communications about the case. Once served, the respondent may react emotionally or aggressively, so maintain distance and vary routines for a few days. Carry a certified copy of any temporary order in case the respondent violates it before the hearing—police can arrest immediately upon proof of service and probable cause.

Finally, obtain and retain the official proof of service form once delivery is completed. This single page confirms when, where, and how the respondent was served. Make multiple copies for your records, as judges often start hearings by verifying service. Without valid proof of service, even the strongest petition cannot proceed to a final order. Step 4 closes the procedural loop that transforms your filing into a live, enforceable case while ensuring your safety and the respondent’s right to notice are both protected.

Step 5: Prepare for the Hearing—Evidence, Witnesses, and Personal Demeanor

The hearing is your opportunity to show the judge why a DCRO should be granted, based solely on conduct, not relationship. Begin preparing early. Create a clear timeline that lists each incident chronologically, including the date, time, location, and witnesses. Next to each event, reference supporting exhibits: “Exhibit A—Text messages from May 10,” “Exhibit B—Police report #5234,” and so on. Keep the narrative factual and avoid emotional exaggeration. The court’s focus is whether the respondent’s behavior meets the legal definition of disorderly conduct and whether a restraining order is necessary for your protection.

Organize all exhibits in three complete sets: one for the judge, one for the respondent, and one for yourself. Label them clearly, number every page, and include a simple index at the front. If you are using photos, ensure they are printed clearly and not overly dark. For videos or audio clips, confirm with the clerk in advance what format the court accepts—most prefer MP4 or USB submissions. If new evidence arises after filing (such as additional messages or sightings), bring those items and be ready to explain when and how they occurred.

If witnesses observed key incidents, contact them well before the hearing. Let them know the date, time, and location, and explain that they will testify briefly about what they personally saw or heard. Witnesses should avoid speculation and stick to direct observations. If you have reluctant witnesses, the clerk can explain how subpoenas work. Even one strong corroborating witness can be decisive in a case where you and the respondent have no prior relationship.

Rehearse your testimony so you can speak calmly and clearly. Judges value organization and sincerity over formality. Begin by identifying yourself, stating what relief you are requesting (no contact, stay-away, indirect contact ban), and summarizing the most serious incidents first. Use your exhibits naturally: “Your Honor, as shown in Exhibit A, this message came after I told the respondent to stop contacting me.” Maintain composure even if the respondent interrupts or denies your claims. Judges watch demeanor closely; calm, consistent testimony signals truthfulness. If you become emotional, take a moment to breathe before continuing. Remember, this process is about conduct, not character attacks. Focus on the behavior and its effect on your sense of safety and privacy.

Finally, review courtroom logistics. Arrive early, dress respectfully, silence your phone, and bring copies of your petition, temporary order, service proof, and exhibits. If the respondent fails to appear despite valid service, the court can still grant the DCRO by default. If they do appear, expect them to tell their side, but remember: the burden is only to show reasonable grounds that the conduct occurred. With your documentation and steady presentation, you will have met that burden. Step 5 prepares you to move from paperwork to proof with confidence and professionalism.

Step 6: Attend the Hearing and Present Your Case Confidently

On the day of the hearing, arrive at least thirty minutes early to allow time for security screening and check-in. Bring your entire packet: the petition, any temporary order, proof of service, and all exhibits. Once your case is called, stand and address the judge respectfully as “Your Honor.” The judge will place you under oath and invite you to summarize your request. Begin with a concise statement: “Your Honor, I am seeking a Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order because the respondent has repeatedly contacted and followed me despite my clear requests to stop.” Then proceed through your key incidents, referring to exhibits in order. Focus on what happened, when, where, and how it affected your safety or privacy. Avoid unnecessary commentary or speculation about motive.

If the respondent appears, they will have an opportunity to respond. Listen quietly, take notes, and stay composed. When the judge allows, clarify any false statements with factual corrections supported by your evidence. Do not interrupt or argue directly. If the respondent attempts to minimize or reframe the behavior as “misunderstanding,” re-anchor your explanation in specific details: times, messages, and witnesses. Judges rely on clear, objective facts to establish reasonable grounds.

When your witnesses are called, allow them to testify freely. They should describe only what they personally observed—no opinions or assumptions. After testimony, the judge may ask questions to clarify timelines or confirm whether incidents caused fear or disruption. Answer calmly and directly. The court may also ask how the respondent’s actions have impacted your daily life—mention sleep loss, anxiety, changes to routines, or security measures you’ve had to take. These statements show tangible harm without exaggeration.

After both sides present, the judge may announce a decision immediately or take the matter under advisement. If granted, the DCRO will include clear terms prohibiting contact and specifying stay-away distances. Ask for certified copies before you leave the courthouse. If denied, the judge will explain the reason, often citing insufficient proof or lack of intent. You may file a new petition if further incidents occur. Remember: a denial is not a finding that your experiences were invalid; it simply means the court did not find sufficient grounds under the statute at that time. Maintain professionalism, thank the court, and exit calmly. Your conduct reinforces your credibility and strengthens future filings if necessary.

Step 7: Understand the Judge’s Decision and Its Enforcement Power

When the judge issues a ruling, the Order for Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order becomes the official document defining your legal protection. If granted, it will list every restriction: no contact in any form, required distance boundaries, and any additional safety terms such as avoiding certain buildings or social-media contact. Once signed, the order is binding statewide. The clerk transmits it to law enforcement so it enters the state and national protection-order databases—meaning that any police officer who encounters the respondent can verify and enforce it instantly. You should collect several certified copies: keep one with you at all times, leave one at work or school security, and provide one to local police. These copies are crucial for rapid enforcement if a violation occurs.

If your petition is denied, read the judge’s explanation carefully. Denials often stem from insufficient evidence of intent or failure to show that conduct was likely to continue. It does not mean your experience was invalid; it means it did not meet the legal standard of disorderly conduct under N.D.C.C. § 12.1-31.2-01. You may refile later if new incidents happen or if stronger evidence becomes available. If the court’s decision cites procedural issues—like incomplete service or unclear facts—correct those problems and reapply promptly. North Dakota courts are accustomed to seeing petitioners return with clearer records after initial denials.

Once an order is active, violating it is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 360 days in jail and fines up to $3,000. The order itself must state this penalty clearly, and officers can arrest the respondent without a warrant if they have probable cause to believe a violation occurred. Keep records of every interaction or contact attempt—text messages, drive-bys, or phone calls—and report violations immediately to law enforcement. Provide the certified copy of your order so officers can verify it in their system. Never confront the respondent yourself. Law enforcement’s role is to intervene; your role is to document and report.

If you disagree with the decision—whether it was a denial or a partial order—you may file an appeal. Appeals must usually be submitted within 30 days, and they focus on whether the judge misapplied the law or procedure, not on re-trying the facts. You will need a transcript of the hearing; the clerk can explain how to request one. While an appeal is pending, the existing order remains in effect unless a higher court pauses it. Step 7 therefore marks the transition from adjudication to enforcement—transforming your case from a petition into an enforceable protection recognized across North Dakota and, under federal law, nationwide.

Step 8: Enforce the DCRO and Respond to Violations

A DCRO is only effective if enforced. North Dakota law authorizes police officers to arrest anyone who violates a valid restraining order based on probable cause, without a warrant. If the respondent calls, texts, emails, shows up at your home or work, or uses third parties to deliver messages, document each incident carefully: note the date, time, location, and what was said or done. Save screenshots, voicemails, and photos, and file a police report as soon as possible. Bring your certified copy of the order to confirm its validity. Police will record the violation, and prosecutors can charge the respondent with a Class A misdemeanor for violation of a restraining order. If the respondent threatens you during or after arrest, that can lead to separate criminal charges.

If violations are repeated or escalate, you can also return to court and file a motion for contempt or motion to modify the order. A contempt motion asks the judge to punish disobedience with fines or jail; a modification motion requests changes—such as extending the duration, clarifying terms, or expanding protected areas. Use the forms provided by the Self Help Center, attach copies of new evidence, and file them with the clerk. The court will schedule a short hearing, and the judge may strengthen the order based on ongoing risk. Always keep a running log of incidents; multiple small violations often persuade judges to impose tougher sanctions.

If your circumstances change—such as moving to a new city, changing jobs, or entering a new routine—update your local law-enforcement agencies with your new address so they can enforce the order properly. Under the federal Violence Against Women Act, DCROs issued in North Dakota are recognized nationwide. This “full faith and credit” provision means officers in other states must enforce your North Dakota order as though their own courts had issued it. When traveling or relocating, carry a certified copy and consider registering it with the new jurisdiction’s law-enforcement office to avoid confusion. Never rely on verbal promises from the respondent that “things are fine now.” Only the judge can modify or cancel the order; until then, it remains fully enforceable.

Step 8 underscores that the DCRO is not just a piece of paper—it’s a living legal tool backed by criminal penalties. Diligent documentation, immediate reporting, and coordination with police ensure that the order delivers real-world safety. If you experience a violation, respond quickly, stay composed, and trust the enforcement process. Consistent follow-through turns your court order into lasting protection.

Step 9: Renew, Modify, or Terminate the Order as Life Changes

DCROs generally last up to two years, but your safety needs may change. About two months before the order expires, review your situation. If harassment or contact attempts have continued—or if you still fear the respondent—file a motion to renew. The renewal process is simpler than the original filing: complete the renewal form from the Self Help Center, attach documentation of new or ongoing incidents, and explain why continued protection is necessary. The court will schedule a short hearing focused on what has occurred since the prior order. If reasonable grounds still exist, the judge can extend the order for another fixed term.

You can also request modifications at any time. If the respondent moves nearby, you may need to expand the stay-away zones. If contact shifts online, you can add social-media prohibitions. File a motion to modify and attach recent evidence demonstrating why the change is needed. The court typically holds a brief hearing and then issues an amended order. Always verify that law enforcement receives the updated version; old copies must be replaced so officers have accurate information.

Conversely, if circumstances have improved and you no longer feel threatened, you may seek to terminate the order before expiration. File a motion to vacate stating that protection is no longer needed. The judge will review the request—sometimes requiring both parties’ signatures—and issue an order lifting the restrictions. Keep a certified copy of the termination order for your records to show that the case was closed properly. Never assume an order ends automatically without a judge’s signature; even expired orders remain on record until formally vacated.

Whether renewing, modifying, or ending the DCRO, maintain organized records of all filings, notices, and decisions. Store digital and paper copies in a secure place, clearly labeled with the case number and dates. These documents can be critical later for employment screenings, background checks, or new protective filings. Step 9 ensures your DCRO remains current with your circumstances—long enough to preserve safety, flexible enough to adapt, and closed cleanly when peace is restored.

Step 10: Reflect, Archive, and Continue Personal Safety Planning

When your DCRO journey concludes—whether through expiration, renewal, or voluntary termination—take time to consolidate and reflect. Begin by organizing every document: the petition, affidavits, exhibits, hearing notes, orders, and service proofs. Create a labeled folder (for example, “DCRO_Bismarck_2025”) and store both digital and paper copies securely. These records serve as proof of past protection should future issues arise or background checks require clarification. Archive police reports, violation logs, and correspondence with law enforcement; they may be valuable if harassment resumes years later.

Next, assess your ongoing safety plan. Even when legal risk diminishes, practical precautions matter. Update locks, adjust online privacy settings, and change passwords or phone numbers used during the case. Notify close friends or coworkers to continue basic vigilance. If you move or change jobs, update your local law enforcement and provide them a copy of any renewed order. Many advocacy organizations offer post-order counseling and planning resources—take advantage of them. Continued awareness is not fear; it’s a strategy that preserves the stability the DCRO helped create.

Finally, acknowledge the significance of what you accomplished. The DCRO process can be emotionally exhausting, particularly when there was no prior relationship with the respondent and you had to prove a stranger’s conduct met the statutory definition. By pursuing a DCRO, you used the law exactly as intended: to reestablish boundaries and restore personal safety. Step 10 closes the process with administrative completeness and emotional closure. You have built a legal and personal framework that discourages harassment and strengthens your long-term peace of mind.

Associated Costs

Filing for a Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order (DCRO) in North Dakota involves minimal costs designed to keep the process accessible to all residents. The primary expense is the court filing fee, which typically ranges from $80 to $100, depending on the county’s local schedule. This fee covers administrative handling, case creation, and docket entry. Because a DCRO is a civil case, the filing fee must usually be paid when submitting the petition unless you request a waiver. The filing fee is separate from criminal or domestic-violence orders, which often have no charge because of their public-safety classification.

If you cannot afford the filing fee, the court allows you to submit a Fee Waiver (Affidavit of Indigency). The form requires disclosure of your income, dependents, and expenses, after which the judge reviews your request. If approved, you pay nothing. The waiver ensures that cost does not block access to safety for low-income petitioners. You can obtain the form and instructions directly from the North Dakota Legal Self Help Center or from your district court clerk’s office. Many self-represented petitioners qualify for full waivers and proceed without paying any fees at all.

The second possible cost is service of process—formally delivering your petition, hearing notice, and any temporary order to the respondent. Most petitioners choose to have the sheriff’s office handle service because it’s efficient and produces official proof. Sheriff service costs vary slightly by county, averaging around $40 to $60 for local delivery, including mileage. Some counties waive this fee for DCRO cases, recognizing their protective nature. If the sheriff cannot complete service (for example, if the respondent lives in another county), you might need to hire a private process server. Private servers usually charge $50–$75 per attempt, depending on distance and number of tries.

You may also incur small costs for certified copies of your order, which are strongly recommended. Certified copies cost approximately $2–$5 each and are useful for giving to law enforcement, schools, or employers to ensure enforcement. If you later file additional motions—such as to renew, modify, or enforce the DCRO—courts may charge smaller filing fees, typically $30–$50, unless your indigency status continues. Always confirm with the clerk whether your waiver remains valid for post-judgment motions.

Importantly, if the respondent violates the DCRO, you do not pay anything to enforce it. Violations are criminal matters handled by law enforcement and prosecutors. Once you report a breach, police can arrest the violator on probable cause, and the state covers prosecution costs. You are not responsible for any enforcement fees. The only time you might incur additional expense is if you choose to hire a private attorney for legal advice or representation—though many petitioners succeed pro se using the official forms and instructions.

Overall, most DCRO petitions in North Dakota cost less than $100 total, and many are free for those who qualify for fee waivers. The low cost underscores the state’s policy that personal safety and privacy protection should not depend on financial means. Before filing, verify your county’s current fee schedule on the North Dakota Courts website or by calling your district court clerk to avoid surprises. Keeping receipts, proof of service, and waiver documentation ensures your case record remains clear and complete.

Authoritative Links

• North Dakota Courts – Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order
• North Dakota Century Code § 12.1-31.2-01 – Disorderly Conduct
• North Dakota Legal Self Help Center
• North Dakota Department of Human Services – Victim Support
• ND Attorney General – Victim Services Training & Resources