Overview

A Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order (DCRO) in North Dakota is a civil order designed to protect individuals from unwanted and intrusive behavior that threatens their sense of safety or privacy. It is not limited to domestic or family relationships — anyone who is harassed, followed, or intimidated by another person may seek a DCRO under North Dakota Century Code § 12.1-31.2-01. The law exists to deter harmful conduct such as stalking, threatening gestures, or continuous unwanted contact. One of the most important aspects of a DCRO is its duration — it may last up to two years from the date it is issued, with the possibility of renewal if the threat or harassment persists.

The two-year limit strikes a balance between protecting victims and maintaining fairness to respondents. The court assumes that behavior and risk can change over time, so it periodically reassesses whether continued protection is justified. However, the petitioner is not left vulnerable at expiration. The law allows them to apply for an extension before the order lapses, ensuring uninterrupted safety. Judges consider recent incidents, continuing fear, or attempts by the respondent to re-initiate contact when deciding whether to renew.

A DCRO remains in full effect from the moment it is served until it expires or is modified by the court. It is enforceable statewide, and law enforcement officers have authority to arrest the respondent without a warrant upon probable cause of violation. Importantly, unlike a criminal sentence, a DCRO is preventive, not punitive. Its purpose is to stop harassment before it escalates into criminal conduct.

Understanding how long a DCRO lasts also requires knowing how it can be modified or renewed. Petitioners can request an extension before expiration, but only the issuing judge can modify or terminate it. Even if both parties reconcile or communicate voluntarily, the order does not dissolve automatically — it remains active until a formal court motion changes it. This ensures the integrity of protection orders and prevents coercion or manipulation by the respondent.

In short, a DCRO offers clear, time-bound protection: immediate relief upon filing, enforceable boundaries for up to two years, and a renewal mechanism to continue protection if risk persists. The next sections explain who can apply, the benefits, and the ten key procedural steps from filing to renewal.

Who Can Apply

Any individual who has experienced intrusive or unwanted acts, words, or gestures intended to adversely affect their safety, security, or privacy may apply for a DCRO. The petitioner does not need to have a family, romantic, or household relationship with the respondent — that’s the defining distinction between a DCRO and a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO). Neighbors, coworkers, landlords, tenants, classmates, or even strangers who harass someone qualify under this statute.

Petitions can also be filed on behalf of minors by a parent, guardian, or custodian. The court gives equal attention to youth cases, especially where bullying, digital harassment, or repeated unwanted contact occurs. Victims of human trafficking or attempted trafficking are explicitly covered under the same statute, giving law enforcement and courts a civil mechanism to intervene quickly before criminal charges are filed.

To apply, the petitioner must submit a sworn written statement (affidavit) describing specific acts — dates, times, locations, and any proof like screenshots, messages, or witness statements. The court reviews the petition the same day it’s filed. If the facts show an immediate risk, the judge may issue a temporary ex parte order providing instant protection until the hearing. Law enforcement serves the respondent, and both parties receive notice of the final hearing date, typically within two weeks.

North Dakota courts accept filings from individuals of any residency status. Whether the harassment occurred at home, school, workplace, or online, jurisdiction applies as long as either party resides or the conduct occurred within the state. Petitioners can appear pro se (without a lawyer), and clerks are required to provide the necessary forms without charging fees.

The eligibility threshold is simple yet precise: if the respondent’s actions are repetitive, deliberate, and interfere with personal peace or safety, the petitioner qualifies. Unlike criminal charges, proof beyond a reasonable doubt is not required — only reasonable grounds that harassment or unwanted conduct occurred and will likely continue without court intervention.

Benefits

The Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order offers a range of benefits that extend beyond immediate protection. Its true value lies in the way it combines accessibility, enforceability, and psychological assurance for those targeted by harassment.

1. Quick Access to Relief: Petitioners can obtain a temporary order the same day they file, without the need for an attorney or prior police involvement. This ensures safety during the gap before the full hearing. The ex parte order is valid immediately upon issuance and remains active until the final hearing, which typically occurs within two weeks.

2. Clear Legal Boundaries: A DCRO provides unmistakable rules — no contact, no messages, no presence within defined distances. The clarity helps law enforcement act decisively; there’s no ambiguity about what conduct violates the order.

3. Broad Protection Scope: The order can cover multiple settings — residence, workplace, school, or online platforms. Courts can list specific digital restrictions (texts, social media tags, or email contact) ensuring that modern harassment channels are fully covered.

4. Affordable and Accessible: DCRO petitions cost nothing to file. North Dakota courts waive all filing and service fees, removing economic barriers. Petitioners can file on their own using forms available from the state judiciary’s website or with the help of victim advocates.

5. Emotional and Psychological Stability: Victims often report immediate relief once the order is granted. Knowing that law enforcement will act on any violation helps restore a sense of control and peace.

6. Long-Term Safety: Because a DCRO can last up to two years and can be renewed, it provides a durable layer of protection. Renewal hearings are straightforward and focus on whether continued fear or unwanted contact persists.

Together, these benefits make the DCRO a cornerstone of civil safety in North Dakota — preventive, enforceable, and grounded in fairness. It empowers victims without criminalizing them and gives courts a measured yet strong tool to stop escalating misconduct before it becomes violence.

Step 1: Understanding the Purpose and Duration

The purpose of a DCRO is preventive, not punitive. It allows courts to intervene when someone’s behavior — though not yet criminal — shows a deliberate intent to invade another’s peace or safety. The law recognizes that fear, stress, and psychological intrusion are harms in themselves. By granting civil relief quickly, the state empowers victims to act before harassment escalates.

Duration is central to this purpose. A DCRO in North Dakota lasts for a maximum of two years unless modified or terminated earlier by the court. This duration ensures two things: victims enjoy sustained safety, and respondents are not permanently restrained without periodic review. The two-year framework aligns with behavioral assessment norms — long enough to deter recurrence, short enough for judicial oversight.

The order’s clock starts at issuance, not service, meaning protection begins once the judge signs the document. However, enforcement becomes active only after the respondent is officially served. During its life span, every term — distance restrictions, contact bans, digital prohibitions — remains binding until expiration. Petitioners cannot waive or ignore it informally; only the court can alter its scope.

If danger persists near the two-year mark, petitioners can request a renewal. The renewal process is simple: file a short affidavit explaining why continued protection is necessary. The judge will review any new incidents, attempts at contact, or continued fear. If the risk remains credible, the order can be extended seamlessly for another term.

Judges emphasize clarity when issuing the final order. Typical language includes: “This order shall remain in effect for two years from the date of issuance unless modified or extended by the Court.” Petitioners receive multiple copies to distribute to schools, employers, and police departments. Digital versions may also be registered through the state’s electronic database, enabling statewide enforcement.

Understanding this two-year duration prevents false expectations. It is neither indefinite nor temporary panic relief — it is a measured commitment to safety, subject to judicial review. When petitioners know the timeline, they can plan renewals strategically, maintaining continuous coverage without procedural gaps.

Step 2: Filing the Petition and Requesting Temporary Relief

Once eligibility is confirmed, the petitioner must formally request protection by filing a petition and affidavit with the district court. This petition initiates the process under North Dakota Century Code § 12.1-31.2-01(3). It must include the petitioner’s name, the respondent’s name, and a sworn statement describing the conduct that qualifies as disorderly — that is, intrusive or unwanted acts, words, or gestures intended to adversely affect the safety, security, or privacy of another person. The affidavit serves as the factual foundation upon which the judge decides whether to grant temporary relief.

Petitioners can obtain official forms through the North Dakota Courts Self-Help Center. These forms are designed to be simple, with fillable fields for describing incidents, dates, and locations. Each allegation should include specific, concrete examples: repeated messages, surveillance, threatening gestures, or attempts to follow. Courts prefer detailed, chronological accounts over generalized claims. For instance, “The respondent followed me from work to my apartment twice last week and parked outside for 30 minutes each time” is more persuasive than “He keeps bothering me.”

Once completed, the petition is filed with the clerk of court in the county where either party resides or where the conduct occurred. The clerk immediately forwards it to a judge for review. In many cases, the petitioner can request a temporary (ex parte) restraining order if they believe immediate protection is necessary before the hearing. Judges often review such requests the same day. If approved, the order is signed, dated, and sent to law enforcement for prompt service.

The temporary order prohibits contact and remains in effect until the full hearing — usually scheduled within fourteen days. During this interim, law enforcement treats violations as criminal offenses under the same statute. Petitioners should carry a copy of the temporary order at all times and provide one to employers, schools, or building management. Electronic copies are also valid if verified by the clerk’s seal.

The petition process is intentionally accessible. No lawyer is required, and filing fees are typically waived in protection cases. If the petitioner cannot appear in person, some counties allow remote filing via email or electronic submission. Each court has slightly different logistics, but the statewide policy favors ease of access. In emergencies — for example, if harassment occurs late at night — the court can even issue orders telephonically through a judge on call.

A successful petition marks the first stage of tangible protection. It transforms the petitioner’s fears into a judicially recognized claim backed by the authority of the state. From this point forward, the process becomes enforceable, structured, and monitored. The duration of the final order, up to two years, will ultimately depend on the hearing outcome and the evidence presented.

Step 3: Service of the Temporary Order and Preparing for the Hearing

After the temporary order is issued, the next critical step is service of process. This is the formal legal delivery of the petition, affidavit, and order to the respondent. Without proper service, the court cannot move to a final hearing or issue a lasting order. In North Dakota, the sheriff’s office is primarily responsible for serving protection orders. The petitioner provides the respondent’s address, workplace, or any known location so officers can find and deliver the papers personally.

Once served, the respondent is officially notified of the allegations and the hearing date. The temporary order becomes enforceable at that moment. Violating it — through calls, messages, or physical approach — constitutes a Class A misdemeanor. Law enforcement can arrest the respondent on sight if probable cause of violation exists. This provision gives the temporary order real teeth even before the hearing occurs.

If the sheriff cannot locate the respondent, petitioners may request alternative service such as certified mail or publication, though these methods require court approval. It’s important to act quickly — the hearing will not proceed until service is completed or excused. Petitioners should stay in contact with the clerk’s office to confirm when service has been returned and filed in the court record.

While waiting for the hearing, petitioners should begin preparing evidence. Documentation should include call logs, screenshots, photographs, witness statements, and copies of any prior complaints or police reports. Organizing this information in a binder helps streamline presentation during the hearing. Judges value structured, factual evidence over emotional appeals.

The respondent, once served, has the right to appear and present their side. The hearing is the respondent’s first chance to contest the allegations. Still, the court prioritizes safety — the temporary order remains active regardless of whether the respondent attends. If the petitioner fears seeing the respondent in court, they can request security escort or separate waiting areas.

This step sets the procedural foundation for the final decision. Service ensures due process, while evidence preparation strengthens credibility. The petitioner’s diligence here directly influences whether the court will grant a two-year order or a shorter duration at the final stage. The goal is to demonstrate consistent, ongoing harm that justifies the full statutory maximum.

Step 4: Attending the Hearing and Arguing for Duration

The hearing is where the temporary order may become a final two-year restraining order. Both parties appear before the judge — the petitioner to prove the pattern of disorderly conduct, and the respondent to rebut or explain their actions. The judge’s decision is based on “reasonable grounds” — a civil standard lower than “beyond a reasonable doubt.” This means the petitioner must show credible evidence that the respondent’s actions were intentional and intrusive.

To maximize credibility, petitioners should structure their testimony chronologically. Begin with the first incident, describe escalation, and end with the most recent episode. Each incident should include what happened, when it occurred, how it affected safety or peace, and whether the respondent ignored prior requests to stop. Judges favor calm, factual delivery over emotional outbursts.

The respondent has the right to speak, but the judge controls the pace and tone. If the respondent admits the behavior or minimizes it, this can reinforce the need for long-term protection. Petitioners may also call witnesses — coworkers, friends, or police officers — to confirm repeated incidents. Tangible evidence like photos, videos, and text messages carries the most weight.

When requesting the duration, petitioners should explicitly ask the court to grant the maximum two-year term allowed under the statute. This ensures sustained safety and avoids frequent court appearances. Explain why long-term protection is necessary: continued fear, prior escalation, or likelihood of future contact. Judges appreciate clarity — “Your Honor, I request the two-year duration because the respondent has repeatedly approached my home even after prior warnings.”

Once the judge decides, the clerk prepares the final order immediately. Copies are provided to both parties and transmitted to law enforcement for statewide entry into the protection order registry. The effective date begins immediately, and enforcement remains constant across all counties. Violating the order at any point within its term remains a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail or a $3,000 fine.

This hearing is the decisive moment. It transforms a temporary measure into a legally enduring protection tool. Petitioners who come prepared — with evidence, composure, and a clear safety rationale — greatly increase the likelihood of obtaining a full two-year order, ensuring continuous peace of mind and legal backing for future enforcement.

Step 5: Understanding Enforcement and Law Enforcement Coordination

After a Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order (DCRO) becomes final, the next critical phase is enforcement. The moment the judge signs and the clerk enters the order into the statewide registry, it becomes active across all of North Dakota’s 53 counties. Local law enforcement agencies have direct access to this database, meaning an officer anywhere in the state can confirm the order’s validity and act immediately if the respondent violates it.

Petitioners should understand that a DCRO is not self-enforcing — its power lies in the coordination between the courts and police. The court clerk forwards certified copies of the order to the sheriff’s office and police department where both parties reside. These copies include the respondent’s name, address, and specific restrictions, such as distance limits (e.g., “Respondent must remain at least 300 feet from Petitioner’s residence, workplace, or school”). If the respondent is stopped by police or reported for violating the order, officers can check the system, verify its status, and make a warrantless arrest under §12.1-31.2-01(10).

Petitioners play an important role in ensuring seamless enforcement. Always carry a certified copy or digital photo of the order. If the respondent contacts, follows, or approaches you, immediately call 911 and provide the officer your case number. Officers don’t need to witness the violation firsthand — probable cause is enough for arrest. Keep a contemporaneous log of incidents, including times, dates, and any witnesses. This documentation becomes invaluable if prosecutors later pursue criminal charges or the petitioner seeks a renewal.

It’s also wise to distribute copies of the order to relevant third parties. Provide a copy to your workplace HR office, your child’s school, or apartment management. These institutions can help enforce boundaries, restrict access, and call authorities if the respondent appears on site. North Dakota’s uniform enforcement policy ensures that once these third parties are notified, they are empowered to report violations immediately.

In rural areas, coordination can take longer, so proactive communication helps. Petitioners should call the county sheriff’s civil division a few days after the hearing to confirm the order has been entered into the Protection Order Repository. In most cases, the entry is automatic within 24 hours, but manual verification provides peace of mind. For inter-jurisdictional coverage, North Dakota orders also qualify under the federal Full Faith and Credit provision, meaning they are enforceable in any U.S. state or tribal territory without re-filing.

Finally, understand the boundaries of enforcement. Officers act on objective violations — physical approach, messages, phone calls, or third-party contact attempts. Minor or ambiguous encounters (such as passing in public) may require documentation but not immediate arrest. Always report anyway; even partial violations demonstrate persistence and strengthen renewal requests. In sum, enforcement transforms the order from a legal document into a lived safeguard — it depends on vigilance, documentation, and a cooperative relationship with law enforcement.

Step 6: Monitoring Compliance During the Two-Year Term

Once a DCRO is issued, it remains legally binding for its entire duration — up to two years unless modified or vacated. The period between issuance and expiration is not passive time; it’s an active monitoring phase that ensures compliance and maintains safety. Petitioners should view these two years as structured protection supported by documentation and steady awareness.

Start by keeping a compliance journal. Every time the respondent appears nearby, sends a message, or attempts indirect communication, note it down. Record the date, time, description, and any witnesses or evidence. Even seemingly minor breaches, like “liked my post on social media,” can demonstrate ongoing disregard for the order. If possible, save screenshots, voicemail recordings, or messages. Over time, these records form a clear pattern of behavior that supports renewal or criminal enforcement.

Police treat violations as criminal offenses, not civil disputes. If a violation occurs, the officer can arrest the respondent without a warrant. Petitioners should immediately report all incidents, even if unsure whether they count as violations. Let law enforcement decide — silence benefits the respondent. Courts appreciate proactive reporting because it demonstrates continued fear and diligence in maintaining boundaries.

If the respondent genuinely complies, petitioners should still maintain basic situational awareness. Review security habits: vary routines, update passwords, and notify trusted friends or supervisors. Many victims feel safer knowing that the court’s protection has a clear expiration, which they can track and prepare to renew if necessary. Judges interpret responsible behavior — such as reporting violations, maintaining evidence, and following safety recommendations — as credibility indicators when considering renewal or modification.

Occasionally, respondents attempt indirect intimidation through others — mutual acquaintances, coworkers, or social media proxies. These third-party contacts count as violations if they are intended to communicate a message. Petitioners should report them immediately and document details. Law enforcement and prosecutors recognize this tactic and can pursue contempt or new charges if intent is evident.

Monitoring compliance also includes checking in with the court near the end of the two-year term. Some courts send expiration notices; others rely on the petitioner to file renewal motions in time. Mark a calendar reminder 60 days before the expiration date. This proactive step prevents gaps in protection and allows enough time for scheduling a hearing if renewal is needed.

In essence, the two-year duration isn’t simply a waiting period — it’s an empowered interval. Petitioners maintain authority through documentation, awareness, and coordination. The respondent’s compliance doesn’t negate vigilance; it reinforces the success of lawful boundaries. Each day within this timeframe represents the functioning of civil protection at its best — preventive, monitored, and enforceable.

Step 7: Renewal and Extension of Protection

As the expiration date approaches, petitioners may request to renew or extend their DCRO. North Dakota law allows courts to renew orders if the petitioner demonstrates continued risk, fear, or evidence that harassment may resume without protection. This renewal mechanism ensures uninterrupted safety beyond the initial two-year term and reflects the state’s recognition that some threats don’t vanish with time.

The renewal process begins with filing a motion to extend before the current order expires — ideally 30 to 60 days in advance. The motion must include an affidavit explaining why continued protection is necessary. Petitioners should focus on post-order events: attempts at contact, sightings, new threats, or ongoing emotional distress. Even if there were no overt violations, credible fear supported by history can justify renewal. The judge’s inquiry centers on whether “reasonable grounds” still exist to believe disorderly conduct may recur.

No new filing fee is required for renewal motions. The hearing process mirrors the original one but is often shorter. The petitioner may testify, present new evidence, and answer questions from the judge. The respondent may appear to oppose but bears the burden of showing that circumstances have changed substantially enough to eliminate risk. Judges err on the side of caution — if uncertainty remains, renewal is typically granted.

Renewals can extend the order for another full term, up to two years. There is no statutory limit on the number of renewals; a petitioner can continue protection indefinitely if justified. For example, in stalking or human-trafficking cases, courts have repeatedly renewed orders over consecutive years because risk factors persisted. Petitioners may also request expanded terms during renewal, such as broader no-contact zones or inclusion of digital restrictions if technology-based harassment has emerged.

It’s crucial not to let the order lapse. Once expired, it cannot be “revived” — a new petition must be filed from scratch. That process restarts the timeline and could leave a gap in coverage. To avoid this, calendar reminders and proactive filing are essential. Many advocacy centers, like the Self Help Center and Legal Services of North Dakota, assist with renewal paperwork at no cost.

Renewal ensures the law’s flexibility and sustainability. A DCRO’s two-year limit is not a deadline for safety — it’s a checkpoint for judicial review. By maintaining records and acting before expiration, petitioners transform the system into a long-term safety mechanism that adapts to evolving risks and modern forms of harassment.

Step 8: Modifying or Terminating the Order

A Disorderly Conduct Restraining Order (DCRO) is not static; it can be modified or terminated if circumstances change. Under North Dakota Century Code § 12.1-31.2-01, only the court that issued the order has authority to make such changes. Neither the petitioner nor the respondent can alter its terms informally — mutual contact, private agreements, or reconciliation have no legal effect until a judge signs an order of modification or termination. This safeguard prevents manipulation and protects victims from coerced withdrawal of protection.

If the petitioner wants to modify the order — for example, to add new addresses, clarify contact terms, or extend no-contact to digital communication — they must file a Motion to Modify. This motion should explain what change is sought and why. The affidavit should describe new events since the order was issued, such as the respondent discovering a new workplace or using social media to contact the petitioner indirectly. The court typically schedules a short hearing to evaluate the request. The respondent is notified but may not appear if the modification strengthens safety.

Termination requests are more delicate. Petitioners sometimes wish to end the order early because circumstances have improved. To terminate, file a Motion to Vacate with an affidavit explaining that the respondent has complied, the risk has ended, or both parties have relocated. Judges evaluate such motions cautiously to prevent pressured withdrawals. If both parties jointly request termination, the court still reviews it independently to ensure consent is voluntary and safety is not compromised.

The respondent may also file a motion to modify, often seeking reduced restrictions or early termination. For example, a respondent might claim they have moved out of state or entered counseling. Petitioners receive notice and the right to object. The judge weighs the totality of evidence — not only compliance but the respondent’s credibility and the petitioner’s continued sense of safety. If uncertainty exists, the order typically remains intact until the original expiration date.

In all cases, petitioners should avoid informal communication about modifying terms. Even if both parties believe the risk is gone, the order remains enforceable until a signed modification order is issued. Any contact before that point still counts as a violation. Petitioners should never agree to “talk things out” without consulting the court or an advocate.

Ultimately, modification is a judicial tool, not a personal negotiation. It ensures the order adapts to evolving realities while maintaining judicial oversight. Properly used, it preserves the balance between freedom and safety, reaffirming the seriousness of court-issued protective relief.

Step 9: Consequences for Violating a DCRO

Violating a DCRO is not a civil infraction — it is a criminal offense. Under N.D.C.C. § 12.1-31.2-01(10), any willful violation constitutes a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail, a $3,000 fine, or both. Law enforcement has explicit authority to arrest the respondent without a warrant if probable cause exists that the order was breached. This power applies statewide and ensures that protective orders carry genuine deterrent force.

Violations include any act that contravenes the terms of the order: contacting the petitioner directly or indirectly, appearing within restricted zones, sending messages through third parties, or surveilling the petitioner’s home, work, or school. Even seemingly minor acts — such as “liking” a social-media post or leaving a note — can qualify if the order prohibits all communication. Courts interpret violations broadly when intent to intimidate, harass, or re-establish contact is clear.

Each violation is treated as a separate offense. A respondent who repeatedly violates the same order can face multiple misdemeanor charges, and judges may enhance penalties if patterns of defiance emerge. In addition to criminal prosecution, the respondent can be held in civil contempt under North Dakota Rule 3.2. Contempt sanctions may include jail time, fines, or both, independent of the criminal case. This dual enforcement structure ensures immediate accountability.

Petitioners should document and report every violation. Call 911, present your certified order, and describe the conduct factually: date, time, words spoken, and witnesses present. Officers verify the order through the Protection Order Repository and can arrest immediately if the respondent is still nearby. Keep copies of police reports, photographs, or messages as proof for prosecutors.

The consequences extend beyond immediate arrest. A conviction for violating a DCRO appears on the respondent’s criminal record and can affect employment, firearm eligibility under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(8)), and custody rights. Judges and employers view such violations as indicators of poor judgment and ongoing risk.

This enforcement framework emphasizes that protective orders are binding judicial commands, not symbolic warnings. The Class A misdemeanor penalty reinforces the message: once the court grants relief, it carries the full weight of the criminal justice system.

Step 10: Archiving Records and Post-Order Planning

When a DCRO concludes — whether through expiration, renewal, or termination — proper record management ensures future safety and legal clarity. Petitioners should archive every document related to the case: the petition, temporary order, proof of service, final order, renewal motions, modification orders, and any police reports. Scan them into secure cloud storage or an encrypted USB drive labeled with the county name and case number (e.g., “DCRO_Burleigh_2025”). Keep physical copies in a sealed folder in a safe or locked cabinet.

Maintaining these records serves multiple purposes. If future harassment occurs, a complete file provides immediate evidence of prior judicial findings, strengthening any new petition. It also helps victims navigate employment or relocation requirements; some housing programs, for instance, request verification of past protective orders for safety planning. In cases involving workplace threats, HR departments often retain copies for security compliance.

For renewed peace of mind, develop a post-order safety plan. Review home security, adjust online privacy settings, and ensure trusted friends or family understand not to relay messages from the respondent. If the petitioner relocates, contact local law enforcement to confirm the order’s registration under full faith and credit. Protection orders issued in North Dakota remain enforceable nationwide, but local agencies must be aware of them to act swiftly.

Petitioners who experience ongoing anxiety or fear should consider counseling or support groups. Many advocacy centers, including Legal Services of North Dakota and the Domestic Violence Crisis Center, provide trauma-informed assistance for survivors after court processes end. LegalAtoms and similar technology platforms can help maintain secure digital copies of orders and reminders for renewal dates.

After two years of coverage, the law assumes either the threat has diminished or circumstances have stabilized. If that assumption proves false, renewal is the correct remedy. If safety has been restored, closing the file formally marks closure — but the records remain valuable for reference. Proper archiving converts the legal journey into a documented history of resilience and accountability.

Associated Costs

North Dakota DCROs are virtually cost-free. Courts do not charge filing or service fees for personal-safety protection cases. Petitioners may incur optional expenses — such as certified copies or private process servers — but these are typically under $100 total. Fee waivers are available statewide for indigent applicants. Legal aid organizations and advocacy groups often provide full support at no cost. This ensures that financial status never becomes a barrier to safety.

Time Required

Most DCRO cases progress from filing to final order within two to three weeks. Temporary orders may issue the same day as filing, offering immediate protection. Hearings must be held within 14 days unless extended for good cause. The final order lasts up to two years, renewable indefinitely if risk continues. Petitioners should plan to review renewal options about 60 days before expiration to avoid lapses in coverage.

Limitations

• A DCRO cannot award financial compensation, child custody, or property rights; it solely restricts contact and proximity.
• Relief lasts a maximum of two years per issuance; continued safety requires renewal.
• Speech protected under the First Amendment cannot be restrained.
• Orders are limited to conduct within or affecting North Dakota jurisdiction unless federally recognized.
• Improper service or expired orders cannot be enforced — procedural precision matters.

Authoritative References

• North Dakota Century Code § 12.1-31.2-01 – Disorderly Conduct Restraining Orders
• North Dakota Courts Self-Help Center
• Legal Services of North Dakota
• National Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7)