Your grandchildren are precious to you, and their welfare is important. Protecting them from someone who is abusing them is of utmost importance. Grandparents in Tennessee might want to learn more about the filing of an order of protection to shield the youngsters rom the abusive person.
According to Tennessee law, the abusive person must be one of the following types of relationships with the minor:
- Related by blood or marriage
- Lived with them
- Had intimate sexual relationship or dated them
- Has a child, born or unborn, with them
- Has stalked them
- Has sexually assaulted them
Who may file
This petition is in regards to someone under the age of 18 years. It might be any of the following:
- Parents- one or both of them
- Guardian
- Caseworker at child abuse center
- Department of Children’s Services (DCS) or court-appointed party
The order of protection
This order protects the minor person from stalking, abuse, sexual assault and threats of abuse. A judge signs it, and it allows police to arrest the abuser. The police do not need a warrant if there is a violation.
A safety plan should go with this as well, since this is just a piece of paper. A discussion with the child should take place, emphasizing their safety from this person. There is some concrete assurance, however. If the abuser violates this order, they may go to jail.
They need details
When you fill out the form, you will need specific details, such as why the children are fearful and what type of hurt they received. It might involve threatening with a knife or gun or pushing and shoving into a wall. Know the specifics.
Grandparents want peace of mind
It is within grandparents’ rights that their grandchildren should receive safety and protection from abuse, no matter what the relationship to the abuser. You may be parenting your grandchildren, and this information might be of help.
Tennessee grandparents may want to file a petition for a Protective Order of their grandchild. They will need to know specific information in regard to abuse.
