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Legal Information: California

Restraining Orders

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Updated: 
June 16, 2021

Will the harasser be notified that I am trying to get a civil harassment order against him/her?

Yes. The harasser must be personally served with a copy of your petition and the temporary restraining order (if there is one) as well as notice of the hearing where the judge will decide whether or not to grant you a final civil harassment order. The harasser must be served at least 5 days before the hearing unless the judge decides there is good reason to shorten that time.1 Your forms can be personally served by anyone over 18 years of age who is not involved in your case,2 such as a friend, a relative, law enforcement or a professional process server.

1 Ann.Cal.C.C.P. § 527.6(m)
2 Ann.Cal.C.C.P. § 414.10

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