Victim Protective Orders (VPOs) in Oklahoma
Your Right to Safety + Defense Against False Allegations
Emergency Victim Protective Orders (the most common VPOs) are intended to protect people from others who intend them harm. They are most often used in this way, and offer you fast, effective, legally enforceable protection from violent or harmful individuals. However, sometimes VPOs are used vindictively as a weapon against those who don’t deserve them.
Whether you are seeking the protection a VPO offers, or need defense against false or exaggerated claims, Stark Law can help with fast, reliable results in all the Oklahoma county surrounding areas including Cleveland, Canadian, McClain, Grady and Comanche County.
How Much Does a VPO Lawyer Cost at Stark Law?
$250 per hour
Emergency VPOs can be filed after hours and on weekends.
What You Need to Know Victim Protective Orders (VPOs)
Protective Order Types
There are four types of protective orders, and it’s important to understand the difference between each.
Emergency VPO: Granted the same day to provide immediate protection – typically without the other party present.
Final VPO: Entered after a hearing, and can last up to five years and may be renewed.
Temporary VPO: Lasts until a court hearing (usually within 14 days).
Mutual Orders: Rare, but possible if both parties present evidence of threats or harm.
Emergency VPO Basics
Emergency VPOs are court orders that prohibit an individual from contacting or approaching another person. VPOs are civil orders, not criminal charges, but violating a VPO can result in arrest.
Common Causes
What is Restricted?
These orders go into effect immediately, with the sheriff serving the individual in question. The VPO remains in effect until a court hearing (within 14 days) to decide whether to issue a long-term order. Many people also include a minor child on a VPO, which restricts contact or visitation with that child while the order is in effect.
When to Seek Emergency VPO Legal Help
Please contact us immediately for assistance filing an Emergency VPO if the case of any of the following:
We are available during weekends and after-hours for urgent protective order filings, which can often be granted the same day.
How VPOs Impact Your Rights and Why Legal Representation Matters
Legal Defense Against VPOs
If you have been served with a VPO, DO NOT IGNORE IT. Failure to appear can result in a permanent order, and violating a VPO can quickly result in legal consequences. VPOs can affect your employment, custody and firearm rights. You need legal representation against any VPO. Stark Law will prepare your defense, gathering evidence and cross-examining witnesses to ensure due process.
How VPOs Affect Family Law Cases
As you might expect, the filing of a VPO is likely to affect family law cases, such as custody, divorce and paternity matters. Even if the court had ordered visitation or custody rights, a VPO will (temporarily) block those rights. Courts consolidate VPOs with the family matter to allow all issues to be heard by the same judge. Likewise, any false or exaggerated claims used to issue an illegitimate VPO can be challenged to protect both your parental rights and your reputation.
You Need VPO Representation
At Stark Law, we understand how stressful VPOs can be. They usually involve people who once cared deeply for each other. Whether you need to file a VPO, defend against one, or try to make a temporary VPO more permanent, we offer effective, aggressive and judgment-free legal counsel during these high-stress, sensitive and emotional situations. We have a depth of experience handling both petitioners and respondents, and know exactly how to most effectively and efficiently handle these matters. We also offer affordable retainers, free consultations and after-hours service. So don’t hesitate to reach out anytime.
Amber W.
“They wasted no time or money, and ensured my case was handled swiftly and effectively.”
Byron C.
Juan R.
The Stark Law Approach
We want you to feel empowered and knowledgeable throughout this process. Stark Law was built to make family law accessible for Oklahomans like you. We’re determined to handle your case with precision and practicality – without any theatrics, drama or confusing billing. Rather, we focus on solid legal work. We file efficiently, communicate clearly and keep you informed every step of the way.
Understandable
Straightforward guidance without legal jargon
Balanced
Advocacy for both men & women
Timely Communication
You always know what’s happening in your case
Transparent
Complete billing clarity & no surprise bills
Efficient
Timely filings & fast action. Most cases move from filing to final orders quickly.
Stark Law can represent you
Wherever you are in Oklahoma
Stark Law can provide the VPO support you need. We defend and advocate for clients seeking VPOs or needing to defend against them across the Oklahoma City metro, including Norman, Yukon and Mustang. We also travel as needed – from Lawton, Chickasha, Newcastle and Purcell to Chandler, Stillwater and beyond.Don’t hesitate to give us a call.
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How Much Does a VPO Lawyer Cost in Oklahoma?
VPO attorney costs range widely, and depend on two primary factors:
- The attorney’s hourly rate
- How much time that attorney will need to spend on your case
Many other firms will try to hide this information from you, but at Stark Law, we believe knowledge is power. Our hourly rate is $250 per hour. You’ll always know where your money is going and you’ll never pay for unnecessary delays.
Stark Law VPO Representation Costs
$250 per hour
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What is a victim protective order in Oklahoma?
A victim protective order (VPO) in Oklahoma is a civil court order that prohibits contact or proximity between the protected person and the accused. This includes no calls, texts or coming within 300 feet of the protected party. It applies to domestic violence, stalking or harassment involving family, dating partners or household members. VPOs can be emergency (immediate) or final (after hearing). They are civil, not criminal, but violations can lead to arrest. Stark Law helps you secure or defend against VPOs.
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How do you file for a VPO in Oklahoma City?
To file, contact Stark Law and we will walk you through the process, which includes completing the petition form at the district court clerk’s office in your county, including a police report if domestic violence is involved and filing in district court. An emergency ex parte order for immediate protection can also be filed, followed by a hearing within 14 days. To ensure successful filing, you need legal representation. Reach out to the Stark Law team to make sure you file correctly.
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What are the qualifications for a victim protective order?
To qualify to file a VPO, you must be a victim of domestic abuse, sexual assault, harassment or stalking by a current or former spouse, family member or dating partner. Orders are available for household members and those with shared children. The court requires evidence of fear or harm. Stark Law will evaluate your eligibility and file quickly.
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How long does a victim protective order last in Oklahoma?
Emergency VPOs can last up to 14 days, until a full hearing is held. Final orders typically last one year and can be extended if the threat persists, and protection extends to family or household members. Any violations can extend or renew the order. Trust Stark Law to guide you through achieving final VPO orders, as well as the expiration and renewal process.
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What if I am falsely accused of domestic violence in Oklahoma?
If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, you can contest the order at the hearing, presenting evidence to show no abuse occurred. You must be served at least 72 hours before the hearing to contest it. Violations of VPOs carry serious penalties, but false filings can also lead to charges against the petitioner. Stark Law represents respondents to protect your reputation and rights.
Stark Law’s Practice Areas
Divorce
Straightforward, effective divorce representation.
Military Divorce
Well-versed in military divorces & SCRA + USFSPA rules.
Paternity
Visitation, custody, child support & more hinge on paternity.
Child Custody
Visitation, living arrangements & decision-making authority.
Child Support
Understand your rights & responsibilities.
Alimony & Spousal Support
Representation to ensure a fair deal.
We believe it’s important to find the right fit with your attorney.
She was very patient, knowledgeable, and understanding. She is also very diligent, approachable, and communicative. I appreciated how quickly she would respond to emails and phone calls. She worked quickly and meticulously and made what I anticipated to be a very difficult process quick and easy. I enjoyed working with her and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her.
Contact Stark Law