Domestic Violence Victim Services and Support

Domestic Abuse No Contact Order (DANCO) FAQs

1. How do I get an Order for Protection?

   If you are a victim of domestic abuse, you may file for an Order for Protection (OFP). An OFP is a civil order signed by a judge that prevents a person from contacting, harming, or threatening to harm you, your children, or other people the judge agrees to list on that order. To obtain an OFP with the assistance of an advocate, contact Bridges to Safety or St. Paul Intervention Project  to connect with an advocate who can talk with you about the process of getting an Order for Protection and assist you in completing a petition. 

2. How do I cancel an Order for Protection (OFP)?

   To cancel an OFP, contact the Ramsey County Domestic Abuse and Harassment Office  at 651-266-5130 

3. What is the difference between an Order for Protection (OFP) and Domestic Abuse No Contact Order (DANCO)

   A DANCO is put in place by a judge as part of a criminal proceeding. An OFP is requested by an individual and is a civil matter. If you have an OFP you can cancel or amend it at any time; only a judge can cancel a DANCO. It is possible to have both a DANCO and an OFP in place at the same time. Cancelling an OFP does not mean that the DANCO gets cancelled. 

4. Where can I find more information on DANCO?

   For more information, please download our Domestic Abuse No Contact Order brochure.