Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

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For children, how long is a Preliminary Protective Order valid?

  1. 3 days

  2. 5 days

  3. 15 days

  4. 30 days

The correct answer is: 5 days

A Preliminary Protective Order (PPO) is a temporary measure intended to provide immediate protection for children in situations where there is a concern for their safety, often in cases of abuse or neglect. In Virginia, once a Preliminary Protective Order is issued, it is valid for a maximum of 5 days. This duration allows for a swift response to potential dangers and ensures that further legal actions can be taken quickly, whether that means extending the order or holding a hearing for a longer-term protection order. The brief validity period emphasizes the urgency of the situation while maintaining a structured process for law enforcement and the courts to evaluate the circumstances fully. It's important to note that during these 5 days, a hearing is generally scheduled to assess the need for a more permanent solution regarding the child's welfare.