Judges Can Grant Possession of Animals
IN A PROTECTIVE ORDER
Pets play an essential role in our lives. They keep us company, give unconditional love, and can be great playmates. Much like our kids, we want to do whatever we can to keep our pets protected and safe. But what happens to your pets if your spouse or significant other becomes violent in your home? What can you do to ensure that you and your pets stay safe? In 2014, the Virginia House of Delegates passed House Bill 972 to expand protective orders in a significant and interesting way. The bill granted judges in Virginia the authority to award pet possession as part of protective orders.
been a victim of violence, force, or threat resulting in bodily injury or placed in reasonable apprehension of harm. A court or magistrate
reptiles, and birds. Farm animals and animals used in research are not considered companion animals. A petitioner is viewed as an owner of an animal as long as they have a property right to the animal, house it, or have the animal in their care. Anyone who violates the protective order provision granting possession of a companion animal can be held in civil contempt of court and suffer criminal penalties. Give us a call if you need help as the petitioner or respondent in a protective order case.
can grant these orders at any time on an emergency basis. The order starts as an emergency protective order before being extended into a preliminary protective order and eventually becomes a permanent protective order for up to two years. Under House Bill 972, courts in Virginia can use protective orders to grant petitioners possession of any “companion animal” shared by the parties, as long as the petitioner is considered an owner. Family pets are considered companion animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters,
Under current Virginia law, an individual can seek a protective order if they have
APPLE CRANBERRY CRISP
SUDOKU
Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
If you’re feeling old-fashioned, treat yourself to this warm and bubbly dish. Nothing says Thanksgiving quite like a classic apple recipe.
INGREDIENTS
• 3 cups peeled and chopped tart apples • 1 1/2 cups cranberries • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar, divided
• 1 tbsp lemon juice • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour • 1/3 cup butter, cold • Vanilla ice cream (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. 2. In a large bowl, combine apples, cranberries, 1/4 cup brown sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. 3. Grease an 8-inch baking dish and pour the mixture into it. 4. In a small bowl, mix flour and the remaining brown sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle this over the fruit. 5. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If desired, serve with vanilla ice cream and enjoy!
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