Under what condition does violating a court order become a misdemeanor unless elevated?

Violating a court order typically becomes a misdemeanor unless circumstances escalate the situation. In this case, when violence or a threat is involved, the violation can be elevated from a misdemeanor to a felony due to the severity of the actions taken against the order. This is because courts recognize that the presence of violence or threats significantly increases the potential harm and danger involved, warranting a more serious legal response.

This principle acknowledges that while simply ignoring a court order may constitute a violation, the introduction of violence or threats represents a more serious breach of law that poses a danger to individuals involved or to public safety. Therefore, the legal system often imposes harsher penalties in these cases to deter such escalated behavior and to protect victims' rights and safety.