Which constitutional principle allows cross-state enforcement of protective orders?

Which constitutional principle allows cross-state enforcement of protective orders?

• A. Separation of powers
• B. Supremacy Clause
• C. Full Faith and Credit Clause
• D. Due Process

Answer: (C)

The ability for a protective order to be recognized and enforced across state lines comes from the Full Faith and Credit Clause. This clause requires states to honor the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of other states, so a valid protective order issued in one state can be enforced by law enforcement in any other state. That cross-state recognition is what lets someone be protected even when they travel or move to a different state. The Supremacy Clause sets federal law as supreme, but it doesn’t establish how state orders are acknowledged across states. Separation of powers and due process describe structure and fair procedure, not the interstate enforcement of orders.

The ability for a protective order to be recognized and enforced across state lines comes from the Full Faith and Credit Clause. This clause requires states to honor the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of other states, so a valid protective order issued in one state can be enforced by law enforcement in any other state. That cross-state recognition is what lets someone be protected even when they travel or move to a different state. The Supremacy Clause sets federal law as supreme, but it doesn’t establish how state orders are acknowledged across states. Separation of powers and due process describe structure and fair procedure, not the interstate enforcement of orders.