Minnesota courts take spousal abuse and other forms of domestic violence seriously.

Many people don't realize that the consequences of committing domestic violence can extend far beyond criminal penalties. Often, alleged abusers will be subject to a restraining order, otherwise known as an order for protection, and can be prohibited from having any contact with their family.

Sometimes, these restrictions can last for an extremely long time. Last month, the Minnesota Court of Appeals upheld an order prohibiting an accused abuser from contacting his ex-wife or children for the next 50 years.

The man had an extensive history of violence toward his ex-wife. The abuse allegedly began when the wife was pregnant with the couple's first child. In 2002, the man beat his wife so severely that she blacked out. Following that incident, the man pleaded guilty to fifth-degree assault. An order for protection followed. The man was convicted of violating the OFP later that year.

The couple stayed together until 2007, during which period the domestic assaults allegedly continued. Following their break-up, the ex-wife obtained another OFP. The man was subsequently arrested for stalking his wife and twice pleaded guilty to violating the restraining order.

He was later imprisoned on charges related to probation violations and stalking of another woman.

The ex-wife renewed the OFP on an annual basis. When the man was released in 2010, his ex-wife petitioned for a 50-year restraining order. Her request was granted by a Washington County judge, but the man appealed, claiming that a 50-year OFP violated his constitutional rights.

Ultimately, the Minnesota Court of Appeals sided with the ex-wife. It thought the OFP was warranted given the severity of the alleged abuse. Further, it did not believe that the restraining order violated any of the man's civil rights.

This case is just one example of the long-lasting consequences of domestic violence charges. If you have been charged with a family violence offense, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help ensure you are treated fairly.

Source: Fox 9 News, "Appeals Court Upholds 50-Year Restraining Order," Jody Ambroz, Dec. 27, 2011