If you're facing harassment or threats, a restraining order can provide crucial legal protection. Understand the process and what these orders can do for your safety.
Expert information to help you understand your rights and options
Restraining orders provide court-ordered protection from abusive partners, stalkers, or harassers—prohibiting contact, approach, and sometimes requiring surrender of firearms. Understanding the process helps victims get effective protection. Learn about restraining orders and how to obtain them.
Restraining order violations are serious—criminal charges, arrest, and jail time can result from prohibited contact or approach. Documenting violations helps enforcement. Learn about violation consequences, reporting violations, and protecting yourself.
Obtaining a restraining order involves filing paperwork, obtaining temporary protection, and appearing at a hearing for permanent orders. The process can be completed without an attorney. Learn step-by-step how to get a restraining order and what to expect.
Different restraining order types apply to different situations—domestic violence orders for intimate partners, civil harassment orders for non-family members, and stalking orders for persistent pursuit. Each has specific requirements. Learn which type fits your situation.