If a Relief From Abuse Order is granted against you, you may lose your right to possess a firearm.
If an RFA is granted against you, it prohibits any contact with the individual or individuals seeking the RFA for the duration of the order (sometimes a up to two years or more). This means no in person contact, no third party contact, and no electronic or telephonic contact. You can read more about the Vermont’s RFA restrictions here.
If you violate the order, even if the petitioner is the one who initiated the contact, you will be charged with the serious of crime of Violation of a Protective Order (also called a VAPO).
It is important to contact an experienced Vermont criminal defense attorney as soon as possible if you are served with a Relief from Abuse Petition. We can help protect your rights and limit the damage to your reputation.