The Judge may ask you if you would agree to a "mutual restraining order".
A "mutual restraining order" means that both people, both you and the abuser, would have an order against the other person that says you cannot abuse, threaten or communicate with the other person. You should carefully think about this before agreeing in court.
A mutual restraining order means that you could be held in violation if you contact the abuser in any way. The abuser may also use this against you later. A mutual restraining order may affect other rights such as your right to purchase or possess a gun. Sometimes, the court will order a mutual restraining order even if you do not agree. This may happen if both sides testify that they were assaulted or both have injuries or were both arrested. If it is too difficult for the judge to tell who the abuser is, a mutual restraining order may be given (even if you disagree).
If the judge issues a mutual restraining order, you can also tell the judge that you want to withdraw your Petition for Order of Protection.