Restaining Orders: How to Obtain Them and How to Fight Them

There are two popular types of restraining orders: Domestic Violence restraining orders and Civil Harassment restraining orders. If the parties involved were at some point or another involved in a dating relationship (including ex-spouses), then a Domestic Violence restraining order is proper. Otherwise, a civil harassment order is appropriate such as between neighbors or other acquaintances. If you want to obtain a restraining order, you will need to fill out a somewhat lengthy petition, file it at the courthouse, and then have it served on the other party. A hearing will occur within weeks of the filing to determine whether the order will be granted. Restraining Orders can last for up to 3 years and can be renewed thereafter. Obtaining a restraining order is not easy as the party requesting the order will have to prove to the court that there has been multiple acts of harassment usually involving abuse or threats. If you need to obtain a restraining order, having experienced legal counsel like restraining order attorney Jonathan Turner is crucial.

Likewise, if you are served with a restraining order petition, you should also obtain an experienced lawyer like restraining order lawyer Jonathan Turner. Restraining orders, if granted, are public records that are embarrassing for the restrained party and can follow them around for the rest of their life. Thus, it may be wise to contest the restraining order to avoid having such an order on your record.