A no-contact order is available to people who are being stalked, harassed, or sexually assaulted by someone they are not in a personal relationship with. This is different from a domestic violence protective order, which is available only to those people who are related or have a personal relationship.
Filing for a No-Contact Order
North Carolina’s 50C is a restraining order that allows victims to have a certain level of protection from the unlawful conduct of someone they do not know or aren’t close to. If the person who is harassing or abusing you is your relative, a former partner, a housemate, or a spouse, you will not meet the criteria for a no-contact order. Instead, you need a domestic violence protective order.
However, if you are seeking protection from a friend, neighbor, co-worker, or stranger, a 50C no-contact order is the correct option. Adults may file on behalf of a minor, as well. North Carolina does not charge a fee to file a no-contact order, and a quick, temporary order may be an option while you wait for a full hearing.
You will need to file the complaint at your local courthouse or the court where the offense occurred or where the other party lives. Legal filings often include the parties’ addresses, but if you are concerned about your stalker or abuser finding out where you live, the address can be omitted from the filing.[1] An ex parte order may be granted if you are in immediate and serious danger. These temporary orders can last up to 10 days and are intended to provide short-term protection until a full hearing can be held.
How a No-Contact Order Protects You
Your 50C no-contact order will be tailored to your unique circumstances. For example, if the offender was calling you repeatedly on the phone, the order could include a provision that prohibits them from calling or texting you.
No-contact orders often include the following prohibitions:
- The offender cannot touch you or injure you
- They cannot visit your home or work
- They cannot stalk or harass you
- They cannot send you emails, letters, or text messages
- They cannot call you at home, on your cell, or at work
Violating a no-contact order can lead to a charge of civil or criminal contempt.[2]
Obtaining a 50C no-contact order may be your best option if you are being attacked, stalked, or harassed by a neighbor, co-worker, or stranger. Ley Law can help you complete the legal paperwork and represent you at your hearings. Contact us at 252-612-0007 to schedule a consultation and discuss our payment plan options.
[1] N.C.G.S.§ 50C-2. https://ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/PDF/BySection/Chapter_50C/GS_50C-2.pdf
[2] N.C.G.S. § 50C-10. https://ncleg.net/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/ByChapter/Chapter_50C.html
