Restraining Orders

When you have filed the forms with the clerk of court, s/he will bring your petition to a judge for review.

If you are in immediate danger and need the protection of a temporary order, you may be required to meet the judge and explain why you think the temporary order is necessary. The abuser will not be present for this hearing.

If the judge believes you or your child are in serious and immediate danger, s/he may give you temporary order which is good for until your full court hearing.

Whether the judge grants you a temporary order or not, you will be given a court date for a full court “hearing” usually within 21 days. This hearing will be in front of a judge at the time shown on the Notice of Hearing. “Notice of the Hearing” is the document that tells the defendant when and where to appear for the full court hearing. At this hearing, both parties will have a chance to explain your sides to the judge.