To the editor,

Of the many duties of a constable, serving a protective order can be one of the most dangerous. Our courts issue two types of protective orders: an order of protection and an injunction against harassment. Both are designed to accomplish the same goal — keeping the aggressor away from the victim (plaintiff) and preventing future acts of aggression.

The difference between the two depends on the relationship between the plaintiff (the victim, or person who files the petition) and the defendant (the aggressor, or person served).

In an order of protection, the victim is asking the court for protection from a person who has committed an act of domestic violence. This could include a current or former family member or someone with whom the victim lives or has lived. In an injunction against harassment, the victim is seeking protection from an unrelated person, such as a neighbor or co-worker. The injunction is based on acts over time that would cause a reasonable person to be seriously alarmed, annoyed or harassed and that serve no legitimate purpose, or from an act of sexual violence.

What doesn’t a protective order do? It makes no guarantees.

The person served with the order is required to comply and adjust their behavior. Compliance is not voluntary — it is mandated by the court.

At the same time, victims should remain aware of their surroundings and take proactive steps to protect themselves. That may include changing locks, relocating, seeking shelter or enrolling in Arizona’s address confidentiality program. These resources can provide additional layers of protection and support.

During my 23 years as a deputy sheriff and my time serving as Maricopa’s constable, dealing with domestic violence and serving protective orders have been among the most emotionally charged and volatile situations I have encountered.

In some cases, a defendant served with an order of protection is ordered to leave the home. These situations require understanding, compassion, communication, de-escalation skills and, at the same time, a recognition of lawful authority.

All of these qualities help explain why experience working with people and strong communication skills are essential for any peace officer — whether a deputy sheriff, police officer or constable.

What I have shared here reflects my experience in The Constable’s Corner and is not intended as legal advice. If you need legal advice, please consult an attorney.

For more information about protective orders, visit azpoint.azcourts.gov. Information about Arizona’s address confidentiality program is available at azsos.gov/services/acp.

William Lee “Bill Griffin”
Constable, Western Pinal County