Family Law and Divorce Glossary Terms

A document which gives someone the power to act on a person’s behalf with respect to certain situiations and transactions. Power of Attorney may be granted for medical, financial, or transactional purposes.

A court order which protects the petitioning party or their minor children if they are in danger of physical abuse and need immediate protection. Orders can be obtained against a family or household member, which includes a spouse or former spouse, person who lives or lived with the petitioner as a spouse; brother or sister; parent or child; family member related by blood or marriage; current or former sexual or intimate partner; and someone with whom the petitioner has a child in common. The order typically instructs the defendant not to abuse, harass, or stalk the plaintiff, their relatives or minor children. It will also order the defendant to be removed from the home where both parties live and grant the plaintiff possession of the home. The order may also address temporary custody arrangements for minor children as well.