Restraining Orders

Anyone, an adult or a minor, can get an order of protection against a minor, which is someone who is under age 17. Unlike most states, in Missouri, age 17 is considered to be an adult.¹ An ex parte order of protection or an order of protection for a child can be issued against a minor in circuit court and then the case will be transferred to juvenile court for the hearing on a full order of protection.² The judge will appoint a guardian ad litem for any minor respondent who is not represented by a parent or guardian.³

Note: When serving an order against a minor, his/her custodial parent, guardian or guardian ad litem must be served (unless the minor is emancipated). The court papers will require that the parent/guardian appear in court and bring the minor-respondent to court at the time and place stated.⁴

¹ MO ST § 455.010(3)
² MO ST §§ 455.035(3); 455.513(4)
³ MO ST § 455.035(3)
⁴ MO ST § 455.035(2)