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Did you know that Military Protective Orders (MPOs) have no expiration? Military protective orders remain in effect until they’re replaced, rescinded, or the issuing commander determines they are no longer needed.

MPOs are orders that clearly indicate what interactions are to be held as prohibited and specify which locations ought to be avoided. There can be some exceptions for work-related matters; however, the larger agenda is to keep a distance as well as prevent conflicts. 

So, what happens if you violate military no-contact orders? The consequences can be disastrous and they can affect not just the people involved but also their relationships.

Understanding No Contact Orders in the Military

Understanding a military no-contact order is important so that you will not violate the restrictions indicated in the order itself. MPOs restrict or prohibit contact between two people, usually for safety or legal reasons. Military command officers issue these orders to keep victims safe, especially when service members are involved in domestic abuse, sexual harassment or sexual assault.

When violated, you may receive a disciplinary action or a legal action. Non-judicial punishment, court-martial, or the like may occur, all of which will be reflected on your service record for future career consideration.

In addition to the legal implications, violation of the order generates more friction between the violating party and the other party, making reconciliation almost impossible.

An MPO is a legally binding agreement, and it shows that whoever is issued one is under investigation for serious allegations of sexual assault, child abuse, sexual harassment, or domestic violence.

Key Components of a No Contact Order

Any person under a no-contact order needs to understand these major components for his or her own good.

The major components are: first, the order defines the parties involved; therefore, you must know with whom you really can’t communicate. 

Second, it lists the ways in which contact may not be made. This might include telephone, texting, e-mail, or physical meetings. The order probably also names areas one should avoid, such as work or home.

The duration of the order is also important, usually valid for a given period, with possible extensions if the moved party later shows cause. Exceptions to the order may include such situations as legal or business obligations.

Become familiar with those elements so that you may adequately manage your duties and rights.

Support Resources for Affected Service Members

Support is there when you have a no-contact order to deal with. You need to contact your unit’s legal office or victim advocate. They can help you understand the rights and duties you are expected to observe under the order.

Consult a mental health professional who understands military protocols and may also offer emotional support and various methods of coping strategies and skills. 

Attend a peer support group, where your experiences will be heard and others can offer alternative points of view to you. 

Then access resources like Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury, which would be useful in identifying some of the services that best fit your needs. 

You are not in this alone.

Dealing with Personal Relationships Under No Contact Orders

Being under a no-contact order may feel lonely, but such an act by the court does not mean that one should not be delicate and deliberate in his relationships.

Keep the emotional channels open with the friends and family around you who know your situation. Use this time to reflect on your actions and, most importantly, on the relationships that add value to you.

Consider contacting a psychologist for this difficult period and to plan how you can cope and be better after this.