For those living under the threat of domestic violence, spousal abuse, stalking or any other type of emotional or physical threat in Virginia, it is important to understand the benefits of a protective order. A protective order, formally referred to as a restraining order, is an order granted through the court system that extends legal protection from the offending person for a defined period of time. If the offender violates the protective order, he or she would likely be arrested and charged with a crime.