St. Paul, MN family law attorney Allyson Kerr explains the difference between a restraining order and an order for protection. She explains that in Minnesota, the main difference between an order for protection and a harassment restraining order lies in the type of relationship required. An order for protection requires a family or household relationship—there must be a qualifying connection between the parties. These orders are focused on issues such as domestic violence, interference with a 9-1-1 call, or physical assault, among other concerns. She notes that filing for an order for protection is free for the parties. By contrast, a harassment restraining order can be filed against anyone, including a neighbor, without the need for a qualifying relationship. While some acts of domestic abuse may fall under harassment restraining order territory, these orders can also address repeated unwanted contact of other kinds.