Who is eligible to file for a harassment restraining order? Can a minor file?
Anyone who is being harassed is eligible to file for a harassment order.1
If the victim of harassment is a minor, the minor can file on his/her own or the minor’s parent, step-parent, or legal guardian can file on the minor’s behalf.2 The judge may appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the minor, but appointment of a guardian ad litem is not necessary for a child victim to petition for a harassment restraining order.3
Note: If the victim of harassment is age 60 or older, s/he is allowed to participate in hearings by telephone or through an internet streaming service, such as Zoom.4
1 Wis. Stat. § 813.125(1)(am)(4)
2 Wis. Stat. §§ 813.125(2)(b); 813.122(1)(b)
3 Wis. Stat. § 813.125(2g),(2)(b)
4 Wis. Stat. § 813.125(5b)