If you have been subjected to abuse by a spouse or intimate partner you do have options. You may petition the court for protective orders to:

• Prevent further abuse,
• Prevent harassment for you or your family members,
• Grant you exclusive possession of your residence,
• Provide for custody of children,
• Provide for financial support.

Petitions may be filed at the District or Superior Court without fee. Information on resources, access to support groups and non-judgmental advice may be obtained through the NH Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence at 1-800-852-3388.

A police officer may obtain an Emergency Order of Protection at any time. An Emergency Order of Protection is only good until the court closes on the next business day.

Criminal Prosecution:

If the officer who may obtain your complaint feels there is probable cause to believe that an assault or other criminal violation has occurred, the offender should be arrested. An abusive person may be arrested for:

• Assault
• Threats
• Trespass
• Vandalism
• Stalking
• Violating a Protective Order
• Or Any Other Crime

When the offender is arrested he/she may be held in jail or released on bail. A condition of bail will be to have no contact with you until this matter is resolved in court.

If you want your abuser arrested, but the investigating officer feels there are insufficient grounds for arrest, you may speak to a supervisory officer or consult an attorney to examine your options

Crime Victims Compensation Program

If you are a victim of a violent crime, or the family or dependent of a deceased victim, you may be eligible for compensation for hospital/medical expenses lost wages, funeral expenses and/or mental health therapy expenses, not otherwise covered by insurance. Property crimes are not covered. Call 1-888-300-4500 for more information. If calling from outside New Hampshire, call 1-603-271-1284.

Safety

The Lincoln Police Department is concerned for your individual safety as well as the safety of your family and friends. Always report incidents of domestic violence. Protective Orders and bail conditions help to ensure your safety. They are most effective when you and the abuser obey the restrictions set by the court.

Your safety and the safety of your children may depend on developing a safety plan for your protection. For more information on safety planning, contact the NH Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.

If there has been no violence in your home, but arguments and disturbances are becoming frequent, assistance can be received through a Woman’s Crisis Center. Emergency shelter is available for persons who are afraid for their physical safety from a spouse or partner.

Telephone Numbers

Plymouth District Court
(603) 536-7609

 Lincoln Police Department
110 Main Street
Lincoln, NH 03251
(603) 745-2238

 NH Legal Referral System
(Pro Bono)
1-800-639-5290

State Crime Victim Compensation
State House Annex
Concord, NH
1-800-300-4500