Can a workplace violence protective order be extended?
A workplace violence protective order can be extended for up to 18 months.1 To extend the order, the employer must file a motion requesting the extension before the order expires. The court will then schedule a hearing. At the hearing, the employer must prove that:
- the abuser violated the workplace violence protective order; or
- there is a substantial likelihood that “the petitioner an employee of the petitioner while performing the employee’s duties as an employee.”2Note from WomensLaw: This language in quotes is what is written in the statute. We have reached out to clarify what the correct language should be.
1 UT ST § 78B-7-1105(2)(b)
2 UT ST § 78B-7-1105(1), (2)
What happens if the abuser violates the workplace violence protective order?
If the abuser violates the workplace violence protective order, s/he can be convicted of a class A misdemeanor.1 The penalty can be up to 364 days in jail and up to $2,500 in fines.2
1 UT ST § 78B-7-1107
2 UT ST §§ 76-3-204(1); 76-3-301(1)(c)