CT SB00448

Requires applications for court relief from physical abuse to include an affidavit stating the applicant is a family or household member who has experienced a continuous threat of present physical pain or injury, and a brief description of the conditions requiring relief.

Expands the definition of "family or household member" to explicitly include persons in or recently in dating relationships, consolidating protections previously listed separately in statute.

Clarifies that protective orders may include enjoining the respondent from restraining the applicant's person or liberty, threatening or assaulting the applicant, or entering the applicant's dwelling, and extends protections to animals owned by the applicant.

Requires courts to schedule hearings within 14 days of receipt of a complete application and affidavit, and mandates expedited hearings within 5 court days for contempt motions related to order violations.

Effective October 1, 2010, amending Connecticut General Statutes sections 46b-15 and 46b-38a.