Orders for Protection

Victim's Rights

If you have been a victim of domestic violence you may obtain an Order for Protection from the Blue Earth County Court Administrator’s Office According to Minnesota State Statute 518B.01 Subd.2(b), domestic abuse occurs to a family or household member IF it is committed by a family or household member. The definition of a family or household member consists of 1 or several of the following:

• Spouse or former spouse
• Parents and their children
• Any person related by blood
• Persons who are currently residing together or have resided in the same household in the past
• Persons who have children together, or are expecting, regardless if they have been married or not
• Persons involved in a romantic or sexual relationship

An adult has the ability to file a Petition for an OFP on behalf of any minor victim OR vulnerable adult

Affidavits and Hearings

When the Judge reviews the Petition and Affidavit for an OFP, they will then determine the validity of the Petition and Affidavit. Prior to issuing an OFP, a Judge may require a hearing to be held to review the OFP. During the hearing, the Judge will listen to both the petitioner and respondent and will then determine the amount of time (if granted) an OFP will be in effect. If the OFP is granted the Blue Earth County Court Administrator’s Office will bring the order to the Blue Earth County Sheriff’s Office for processing and for service upon the respondent. If the respondent resides in another county, the Sheriff’s Office will forward the OFP to them for service. The Sheriff’s Office does NOT charge for service of OFPs.

Victim Assistance

If you or someone you know has been or is currently a victim of domestic violence, CADA (Committee Against Domestic Abuse) can help you. They can be reached at 507-625-8688.