Definitions, Child Protection Orders. As used in this Section,
the following definitions as found in Section 455.501, RSMo., shall
apply, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
ABUSE
Any physical injury, sexual abuse, or emotional abuse inflicted
on a child other than by accidental means by an adult household member,
or stalking of a child. Discipline, including spanking, administered
in a reasonable manner shall not be construed to be abuse.
ADULT HOUSEHOLD MEMBER
Any person eighteen (18) years of age or older or an emancipated
child who resides with the child in the same dwelling unit.
CHILD
Any person under eighteen (18) years of age.
COURT
The Circuit or Associate Circuit Judge or a Family Court
Commissioner.
EX PARTE ORDER OF PROTECTION
An order of protection issued by the court before the respondent
has received notice of the petition or an opportunity to be heard
on it.
FULL ORDER OF PROTECTION
An order of protection issued after a hearing on the record
where the respondent has received notice of the proceedings and has
had an opportunity to be heard.
PETITIONER
A person authorized to file a verified petition under the
provisions of Sections 455.503 and 455.505, RSMo.
RESPONDENT
The adult household member, emancipated child or person stalking
the child against whom a verified petition has been filed.
STALKING
Purposely and repeatedly harassing or following with the
intent of harassing a child. As used in this Subdivision, "harassing" means engaging in a course of conduct directed
at a specific child that serves no legitimate purpose, that would
cause a reasonable adult to believe the child would suffer substantial
emotional distress. As used in this Subdivision, "course of
conduct" means a pattern of conduct composed of a series
of acts over a period of time, however short, evidencing a continuity
of purpose. Constitutionally protected activity is not included within
the meaning of "course of conduct".
VICTIM
A child who is alleged to have been abused by an adult household
member.