A victim of domestic violence may seek protection by filing a civil action for a domestic violence protective order (DVPO), sometimes commonly referred to as a “50B.” Such an order can require a person to stay away from the victim (maintaining a certain distance at all times), grant the victim possession of the home, order no contact with the victim, not allow visits to the workplace of school of the victim, or various other provisions that are appropriate for the circumstances. In addition, it is important to understand that a DVPO or 50B is a civil order and entirely separate from any potential criminal action that may involve the same parties such as an assault charge.