限制令

I am sorry you are in this situation. You can file for a restraining order right here at the courthouse. There are different types depending on your relationship with the person — domestic violence, harassment, or civil harassment. Can you tell me about your situation?

That would fall under a domestic violence restraining order since you had an intimate relationship. You fill out the petition describing the abuse and any incidents. A judge can review it today and issue a temporary restraining order immediately. There is no filing fee for domestic violence cases.

The order can require them to stay a certain distance from you — typically one hundred yards — from your home, workplace, and children school. It prohibits any contact including calls, texts, emails, and social media. They may also be required to surrender any firearms.

The temporary order lasts until the court hearing, which is scheduled within twenty-one days. At the hearing, both sides can present evidence. If the judge grants a permanent order, it typically lasts three to five years and can be renewed. There are also victim advocates available to help you through the process for free.

Gather all your evidence — save screenshots of threatening messages, print any emails, bring photos of any injuries, and get copies of police reports if you filed any. Organize everything in chronological order. If you have witnesses, they should come to court or provide written statements.

Yes, they have the right to be there and respond. But the court takes your safety seriously. Let us know when you arrive and we can arrange for you to wait in a separate area. A bailiff will be in the courtroom at all times. You can also request to testify via video link in some cases.

The judge will ask you to describe the incidents that made you fear for your safety — when they happened, what was said or done, and how it affected you. Be specific with dates, times, and details. Speak calmly and clearly. The other side may also ask you questions through the judge.

If the order is not granted, the temporary order expires. You can still report any new incidents to the police and file a new petition if circumstances change. I would also recommend connecting with a domestic violence hotline — they offer safety planning, counseling, and legal resources even without a court order.