English
EspañolCan I get a restraining order against the abuser?
One tool that can be helpful if you are trying to escape from domestic violence is a restraining order, also known as a protection order, injunction, etc. A restraining order can provide many forms of protection and can order an abuser to:
- stop all contact;
- stay away;
- leave the home; and
- do, or stop doing, other things the judge orders to keep the petitioner safe.
If the behavior continues, it could be a violation of the restraining order. If you call the police or file a violation petition in court, the abuser could be arrested or punished in some other way.
Anyone can file for a restraining order if s/he has been the victim of one of the qualifying acts of abuse included in the state’s laws. In our Restraining Orders section, you can look for the legal definition of domestic violence in your state. Note that some states also have restraining orders to protect individuals with disabilities or the elderly specifically.
If you have specific questions about your state’s laws or your legal situation, you can reach us through our Email Hotline.
