JapanPenalties for violating DV protection order?
Violating a domestic violence protection order in Japan is a criminal offense punishable by up to one year imprisonment or a fine of up to ¥1 million.
What the Law Says
Japan’s Act on the Prevention of Spousal Violence and Protection of Victims (commonly called the DV Prevention Act) establishes protection orders and sets strict penalties for violations.
Under the DV Prevention Act, a Family Court may issue a protection order prohibiting the abuser from approaching, contacting, or residing with the victim. These orders can last up to 30 days initially and may be extended.
Section 11 explicitly criminalizes violation of such orders. Anyone who breaches a valid protection order commits an offense and faces criminal prosecution.
The penalty applies regardless of whether physical harm occurs — mere noncompliance (e.g., showing up near the victim’s home or sending messages) is sufficient for conviction.
Statutory TextA person who violates an order issued under the provisions of Article 8, paragraph (1), or Article 9, paragraph (1), shall be punished by imprisonment with work for not more than one year or a fine of not more than one million yen.
— Act on the Prevention of Spousal Violence and Protection of Victims, s. 11 — Penalty for Violation of Protection Order
What to Do
Immediately contact local police and report the violation — provide proof (e.g., messages, photos, witness statements).
Request police to file a criminal complaint under Section 11 of the DV Prevention Act.
Contact a local spousal violence consultation support center (available nationwide via 24-hour hotline: #8891).
Apply to Family Court for extension or modification of the protection order if needed.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.