Relating to consent agreements for domestic abuse and sexual abuse protective orders

This bill relates to consent agreements and domestic abuse and sexual abuse protective orders. Under current law, upon a finding of domestic abuse or sexual abuse, the court may approve a consent agreement or grant a protective order. The bill strikes the requirement that a finding of domestic abuse or sexual abuse must occur before the court approves a consent agreement.26; grant possession of the residence to the plaintiff to the exclusion of the defendant or that the defendant provide suitable alternate housing for the plaintiff; pay separate support and maintenance to the plaintiff and any children under years of age; and avoid any contact with animals owned by the plaintiff, defendant, or minor child of the defendant. A consent agreement may also contain a provision relating to an award of temporary custody or temporary visitation rights with regard to any children under years of age.7 (sexual abuse) may contain but is not limited to provisions that the defendant cease sexual abuse of the plaintiff and stay away from the plaintiff’s residence, school, or place of employment.