Restraining Orders

To change (modify), extend, or dismiss your order, go back to the court where you got it. You will need to file a petition with the clerk. You can get the proper form from the clerk, or by going to our IA Download Court Forms page. You must fill out the form and submit it to the court before your current order expires.  A judge will schedule your case for a hearing where both you and the abuser can come to court and present evidence.

If you are requesting an extension, the judge can extend your order for up to one year if you prove that the defendant continues to pose a threat to your safety, or to the safety of an immediate family member or anyone who lives with you. You can have an order extended more than once.¹

Note: The abuser can also ask the judge to change the order at any time.¹ S/he will have to follow the same procedure of filing a petition with the court and scheduling the case for a hearing. You will be notified of the hearing, and you will get the chance to come to court and fight against the order being changed if you choose to do so. See Do I need to tell the court in Iowa if I move? for more information.

¹ Iowa Code § 236.5(3)