NC S431

Creates permanent domestic violence protective orders that remain in effect for the lifetime of the respondent.

Permanent orders may be issued if the court finds: (1) an act of domestic violence occurred, (2) reasonable grounds exist for the victim to fear future contact, (3) proper service was made on the respondent, and (4) the respondent answered or is in default.

Permanent orders may include prohibitions on threatening, visiting, assaulting, following, harassing, abusing, contacting the victim, or entering the victim's residence, school, workplace, or other specified locations.

A permanent order may be issued concurrently with a fixed-time protective order and can be rescinded at any time if the court determines the victim no longer has reasonable grounds to fear contact with the respondent.

The act becomes effective October 1, 2021, and applies to actions or motions filed on or after that date.