MN HF1396

Amends Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 518B.01 to authorize courts to include provisions regarding pets and companion animals in domestic abuse protective orders.

Courts may direct the care, possession, or control of a pet or companion animal owned, possessed, or kept by the petitioner, respondent, or a child of either party as part of relief granted in protective orders.

Courts may order the respondent to refrain from physically abusing or injuring any pet or companion animal as an indirect means of intentionally threatening the safety of a person, without legal justification.

Expands ex parte order provisions to include the same pet and companion animal protections when immediate and present danger of domestic abuse is alleged.

Relief granted by protective orders shall not exceed two years, except when the court determines a longer period is appropriate.