What must an order include to ensure enforcement by police?

For an order to be enforceable by police, it must include a clause that specifically authorizes peace officers to enforce the terms of that order. This peace officer clause clarifies the authority granted to law enforcement, not only identifying the order as one that must be recognized but also providing the legal basis for police intervention should there be a violation.

In family law situations, such enforcement often relates to custody arrangements, visitation rights, or support obligations, making it essential that police can act upon the court's directives without ambiguity. This clause essentially acts as a tool for law enforcement to uphold the order in practice.

While other elements like a signed agreement or an enforcement clause may indicate the parties' intentions or outline the steps for enforcement, they do not confer the necessary legal authority for police action. Similarly, a witness statement, although potentially useful as evidence in disputes, does not provide the same level of enforceability. Therefore, including a specific peace officer clause in the order is critical for ensuring that law enforcement has the clear authority to intervene when necessary.