If you’ve been charged with a crime involving domestic violence, assault, harassment, or stalking in Minnesota, one of the immediate consequences may be a no contact order. Also known as a Domestic Abuse No Contact Order (DANCO) or a restraining order, this legal directive prohibits you from contacting the alleged victim in any way.
Whether you’re the person who requested protection or the one the order is issued against, understanding how no contact orders work is critical. Violating one can lead to arrest, jail time, and additional criminal charges—even if the protected person initiates the contact.
In this article, we break down what a no contact order is, how it’s issued, what it covers, and what you should do if one is filed against you.
What Is a No Contact Order?
In Minnesota, a no contact order is a court-issued directive that prohibits someone from contacting another person. It is often issued in cases involving:
- Domestic violence
- Assault
- Harassment
- Stalking
- Sexual assault
There are two common types:
1.
Domestic Abuse No Contact Order (DANCO)
A DANCO is typically issued by a criminal court after someone is arrested for a domestic abuse-related offense. It applies during the pretrial phase, and sometimes even after sentencing.
2.
Order for Protection (OFP)
This is a civil court order obtained by the alleged victim of domestic abuse. Unlike DANCOs, the person seeking an OFP must file a petition with the court. You can read more about Orders for Protection in Minnesota from the MN Judicial Branch.
How Is a No Contact Order Issued?
A DANCO is often issued at the defendant’s first court appearance following an arrest. The judge has discretion and will consider:
- The nature of the offense
- Prior history of domestic violence
- The relationship between the parties
- Any risk to the safety of the alleged victim
A judge can issue the order without the victim requesting it, and even against the victim’s wishes. This is because it is issued to protect the integrity of the legal process, including witness safety.
What Does a No Contact Order Prohibit?
No contact orders can prohibit several forms of contact, including:
- In-person communication
- Phone calls
- Text messages
- Emails
- Social media interaction
- Contact through third parties
If the alleged victim and the defendant live together, a no contact order usually requires the defendant to move out immediately, even if they own or lease the property.
Some orders may also restrict the defendant from going to certain places—such as the alleged victim’s workplace, home, or school.
Can the Alleged Victim Waive the Order?
No. Only the court can remove or modify a no contact order. Even if the protected person initiates contact or invites you to meet, it is still a violation if you respond.
Violating a no contact order is a crime, regardless of who started the communication. This is one of the most common ways people inadvertently face additional charges.
Consequences of Violating a No Contact Order
Violating a no contact order in Minnesota can have serious consequences:
- Arrest and detention
- Additional misdemeanor or felony charges
- Revocation of bail or conditional release
- Harsher penalties in the underlying case
- Probation violations or longer sentences
Even a single text message can be enough to trigger a violation.
If you’re accused of violating a no contact order, it’s important to seek legal help immediately.
How Long Does a No Contact Order Last?
The duration depends on the type of order:
- A DANCO usually remains in effect until the underlying criminal case is resolved or until it is formally lifted by the court.
- An Order for Protection can last up to two years, and in some cases, even longer.
Either party can request a hearing to modify or terminate the order, but the decision lies with the judge.
How to Challenge or Modify a No Contact Order
If a no contact order is unfair or interferes with your life—for example, you share children or property with the protected person—you can request a modification hearing. The court may allow limited contact for:
- Child exchanges
- Co-parenting communication
- Financial or housing arrangements
To request a modification, your attorney can file a motion to amend the order and present evidence that contact would not pose a danger.
However, you must strictly follow the current order until the court grants changes.
What to Do If You’re Served a No Contact Order
Here’s what to do if you’re issued a DANCO or OFP:
- Do not contact the protected person.
- Move out immediately if the order includes a residence restriction.
- Avoid shared places like schools or workplaces.
- Consult a criminal defense attorney to evaluate your legal options.
- Prepare for your next court hearing with evidence that supports your case.
At Martine Law, we’ve helped clients successfully challenge or modify no contact orders and defend against associated criminal charges.
Can You Have Contact Through Social Media?
No. Social media counts as a form of contact. Liking posts, tagging, commenting, or even watching someone’s stories may be interpreted as a violation. Always assume that indirect digital communication is also banned under a no contact order.
Do You Need a Lawyer?
Yes. Whether you’re trying to lift a no contact order, avoid violations, or fight a related charge, an experienced attorney can make a significant difference.
At Martine Law, we:
- Help you understand the scope and risks of a no contact order
- File motions to amend or lift the order
- Represent you at hearings
- Develop defense strategies in your underlying criminal case
Contact us today to get a clear path forward and protect your rights.
Trusted Resources
- Minnesota Judicial Branch – Domestic Abuse No Contact Orders (DANCO)
- LawHelpMN – Orders for Protection