As a survivor of domestic abuse, I need to have access to the court system during the state’s COVID-19 response. What are my options?

The Executive Order the Governor signed April 2, 2020 suspends the requirement that victims of domestic abuse sign an application for an order of protection under oath before a notary or attorney. Instead, they will be able to sign an application outside the presence of a third party under the penalty of false statement. 

The Governor thanks the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence and the Judicial Branch for their input and coordination on this important matter. Today’s order, along with additional changes the Judicial Branch intends to make to its Rules of Civil Procedure, will ensure victims of domestic abuse continue to have access to our courts during the COVID-19 pandemic.