Bill No. 623 amends the Protection from Domestic Abuse Act to enhance the service of protective orders. Key changes include the requirement that protective orders be served at specific locations, including county jails if the defendant is in custody, and that the initial attempt at service must occur within 24 hours of the order's issuance. The bill also prioritizes the service of emergency orders and allows for electronic transmission of documents for service. Additionally, it stipulates that if service is not completed before a scheduled hearing, the court must issue a new emergency order with a new hearing date.

The bill further establishes that protective orders must be renewed every 14 days until the defendant is served, and it clarifies that failure to serve the defendant does not automatically lead to dismissal of the petition unless requested by the victim. It prohibits mutual protective orders and mandates that if both parties claim domestic abuse, they must file separate petitions. The bill also allows for the transfer of billing responsibility for wireless phone numbers and utility accounts to the petitioner, ensuring their access to these services during the protective order process. An emergency clause is included, allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22-60.4
Floor (Senate): 22-60.4
Engrossed: 22-60.4