If someone files an order of protection against you in Tennessee, it can feel overwhelming. These orders are often tied to domestic disputes, stalking, or allegations of abuse. Many people wonder: does an order of protection stay on your record forever? Understanding how these orders work and what they mean for your future is key.
At the Law Office of Amanda J. Gentry, we help clients navigate these complicated situations and explain your options in clear, straightforward terms.
Who Can Request an Order of Protection?
In Tennessee, a wide range of people can file an order of protection if they feel threatened or unsafe. This can include a current or former spouse, a partner, someone you lived with, or a family member. Even someone with no familial ties, like a stalker or someone who threatens sexual harm, can ask the court for protection if they show evidence of risk.
Types of Orders of Protection
Tennessee recognizes two main types of protection orders. A Temporary Protection Order (TPO) is meant for immediate safety and usually lasts about 15 days or until a hearing. After the hearing, a judge may issue an Extended Protection Order (EPO), which can last up to a year and be renewed if ongoing protection is needed. These orders are meant to protect victims, but they can also have long-term consequences for the person named in the order.
How Orders of Protection Affect Your Record
An order of protection can appear on background checks, even if the case was dismissed. This can affect job applications, housing opportunities, and professional licenses. Because it doesn’t disappear automatically, it’s important to understand your options for removing it from your record.
Ways an order of protection can impact your life:
- Employers may see it during a background check
- Landlords could deny housing applications
- Certain professional licenses may be affected
Removing an Order of Protection from Your Record
If an order of protection was dismissed, you may be able to have it removed from your record through a court process called expungement. This involves filing a motion with the court and showing that the order was dismissed or unjustified. Working with a lawyer can make this process easier and increase the likelihood of success.
Steps to remove a protection order:
- File a motion to expunge the order
- Present evidence that the order was dismissed
- Follow up to ensure the court finalizes the expungement
Planning for the Future After a Protection Order
Even after a protection order expires, it can continue to affect your life if it hasn’t been removed from official records. Taking steps early—whether that means challenging the order or filing for expungement—can make a meaningful difference in your ability to get jobs, secure housing, and move forward without a permanent mark on your record. Contact us today.
