Legal Information: Texas

Restraining Orders

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Updated: 
July 28, 2023

What is a temporary ex parte order? How long does it last?

A temporary ex parte order is a court order designed to provide you and your family members with immediate protection from the abuser. You can get a temporary ex parte order without the abuser present in court. To get a temporary ex parte order, the judge has to believe that the abuser presents a clear and present danger of family violence to you or a family member. The judge will make this decision based upon the information you include in your application for a protective order.1

A temporary ex parte order lasts for the period of time stated in the order, usually up to 20 days. The temporary ex parte order can be extended for additional 20-day periods if you request it or if the judge decides to extend it, usually due to the fact that the respondent was not yet served.2

1 Tex. Fam. Code § 83.001
2 Tex. Fam. Code § 83.002

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