Final answer:
A 'stay away' directive in a civil no contact order means the respondent should avoid all forms of direct or indirect contact with the petitioner, including through third parties. Violation of this directive can lead to legal consequences. Consultation with a legal professional can help avoid inadvertent breaches of the order.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of a civil no contact order, a 'stay away' directive means that the respondent must not engage in direct or indirect contact with the petitioner. If a respondent attempts communication with the petitioner through another person, this action commonly constitutes a violation of the protective order. Civil no contact orders are legal instruments issued by a court to help protect an individual from unwanted interaction with another person, and they extend to cover indirect methods of communication, such as through a third party.
It is crucial for the respondent to understand that adherence to the order is a legal obligation, and noncompliance can lead to serious legal consequences. The terms of the order will often explicitly state that contact of any kind, whether direct or indirect, is not permitted. If there is any confusion or ambiguity about the order's stipulations, the respondent should consult with a legal professional to ensure they do not inadvertently breach the order.