Restraining Orders

As a resident of Arizona, you can file for a domestic violence protective order in any superior, municipal or justice court in any county in Arizona. There are a few exceptions to this rule, however:

1. If two courts are located within a one mile distance, then one court can be designated as the court which issues protective orders;
2. If you have filed an action for divorce, separation, paternity or annulment with the superior court involving the same person from whom you want protection, then you need to return to the superior court to request an order of protection;
3. If the defendant is less than 12 years of age, only the juvenile division of the superior court may issue the order or injunction;¹ and
4. If your children are listed as “protected parties” in the order, you may be referred to the superior court if you file in another court.²

¹ A.R.S. § 13-3602(A)
² See Plaintiff’s Guide Sheet for Protective Orders on the Arizona Courts website