Sexual Assault Protection Order (SAPO)

Increasing Your Safety: Washington's Sexual Assault Protection Order

What is a Sexual Assault Protection Order? A sexual assault protection order is a civil order issued by a court on behalf of a sexual assault victim.

What Can a Sexual Assault Protection Order Do? The order can require the person who harmed you to stay away from you, your home, school, work or other places you request, and to have no further contact with you.

Who Can Get a Sexual Assault Protection Order? Any person 16 or older who is a victim of sexual assault may petition the court to obtain an order. If you are under 16, you need a parent or guardian to ask the court for the order on your behalf.
 

How Does the Law Define Sexual Assault

Nonconsensual (meaning lack of freely given agreement) sexual touching of the genitals, anus, or breasts - either directly or through clothing.

Nonconsensual sexual penetration, however slight, of the genitals or anus by a body part of another including the mouth or the use of objects.

Forced display of the genitals, anus or breasts for the purpose of sexually arousing another.