A Domestic Abuse No Contact Order, commonly called a DANCO, can restrict communication with an alleged victim. The order is issued in a criminal case to address safety concerns. Violating its terms can result in a separate criminal offense.
A Danco order may prohibit more than visiting someone’s home or workplace. It can prohibit you from contacting a protected person, communicating through third parties, visiting certain locations, using social media to interact with them, or engaging in other activities specified by the court. The exact restrictions depend on the terms of the order. Violating those terms can result in a separate criminal offense.
People subject to a DANCO should carefully review every condition. Minnesota law allows these orders during criminal proceedings and certain probation situations. The restrictions remain effective unless the court changes them.
Contacting the Protected Person
A primary DANCO restriction is prohibiting contact with the protected person. This can include communication through methods covered by the order. Individuals should follow the written terms.
Communication can create legal problems even when the protected person agrees. Their wishes do not automatically cancel the court order. Only the court can dismiss a DANCO.
Contacting the Protected Person Through Third Person
A DANCO can create problems when someone communicates indirectly. Messages sent through friends, relatives, or intermediaries may violate the order. Avoiding prohibited communication is the safest approach.
Indirect communication can include asking someone else to deliver messages. Electronic communication can also create concerns. Minnesota law specifically addresses certain electronic DANCO violations.
Visiting Restricted Locations
A DANCO may restrict contact at locations mentioned in the order. These restrictions may involve residences, workplaces, or other locations. Individuals should review the order carefully.
Being in the same location can create complications when contact is prohibited. A person should not assume an accidental encounter permits conversation. Legal guidance may clarify how to handle unavoidable encounters.
Contact Through Social Media
Social media can create additional risks for someone subject to a DANCO. Direct messages, comments, or alternate accounts may constitute prohibited contact. Online communication should therefore be approached cautiously.
Posting information about a protected person can also create concerns. Public posts may contribute to allegations of prohibited contact or harassment. The order’s exact language should be reviewed beforehand.
Contact Concerning Children
A DANCO can create complications when the parties share children. The order may restrict communication even when parenting responsibilities continue. Separate court orders may provide approved communication arrangements.
Parents should not assume custody responsibilities override a DANCO. The order determines what contact is permitted unless it is modified. Legal advice can clarify how parenting arrangements interact with restrictions.
Violating a DANCO
Minnesota Statutes § 629.75, subdivision 2, makes a knowing violation of a DANCO a misdemeanor unless enhanced penalties apply. Certain prior offenses can elevate a violation to a gross misdemeanor. Repeated qualifying violations can result in felony charges.
Minnesota law also provides enhanced penalties for certain repeated violations. A felony violation can carry up to five years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.
Key Takeaways
- A DANCO can prohibit direct and indirect contact with a protected person.
- Communication through other people may create legal risks.
- Social media interactions can potentially violate the order.
- Parenting responsibilities do not automatically override a DANCO.
- Knowing violations can result in criminal charges.
- Keeping proof of insurance can prevent unnecessary complications.
- Responding to the ticket promptly can help avoid additional consequences.
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