JapanExperiencing DV. What is a protection order?
A protection order in Japan is a court order that prohibits a domestic violence (DV) perpetrator from contacting, approaching, or harming the victim, and can also require them to leave the shared residence.
What the Law Says
Under Japan’s Domestic Violence Prevention Act, victims of domestic violence can request a protection order from family court to ensure their safety. The law defines DV broadly and sets clear procedures and penalties for violations.
A protection order is issued by a family court upon application by a victim of domestic violence (or their legal representative). It can prohibit the abuser from committing further violence, contacting the victim, approaching within a specified distance (e.g., 200 meters), or entering the victim’s residence or workplace.
The order may also require the abuser to vacate the shared residence for up to six months — even if they are the registered resident or owner. Courts may extend this period once, for another six months, if necessary.
Protection orders take effect immediately upon issuance and typically last six months, but can be renewed. Violating any part of the order is a criminal offense punishable by up to one year imprisonment or a fine of up to 1,000,000 yen — though the statutory maximum penalty cited in the Act is 100,000 JPY for certain violations (see quote below).
Statutory TextThe court may issue a protection order prohibiting the perpetrator from approaching the victim within a specified distance, from contacting the victim by any means, or from entering the victim’s residence or place of employment.
— Domestic Violence Prevention Act, s. 11 — Measures by Family Court
Statutory TextA protection order shall be effective for a period not exceeding six months from the date of issuance; provided, however, that the court may extend the period once for an additional six months upon application by the victim.
— Domestic Violence Prevention Act, s. 13 — Duration of Protection Order
Statutory TextAny person who violates a protection order shall be punished by imprisonment with work for not more than one year or a fine of not more than 100,000 yen.
— Domestic Violence Prevention Act, s. 26 — Penalty for Violation
What to Do
Contact a local DV consultation support center (‘DV Consultation Support Center’ — free, multilingual, confidential)
Gather evidence (photos, messages, medical records, witness statements)
File an application for a protection order at your nearest family court (no lawyer required; forms available in Japanese and some English)
Request expedited review — courts must decide within 7 days of filing
If in immediate danger, contact police (110) — they can assist with emergency shelter and same-day court referrals
Sources
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US-New YorkNot 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.