1. Go to your local court
You can go to the courthouse anytime it is open and ask to apply for a protective order. You do not need an appointment. If court is closed, you must go to the police.
2. Ask for the Clerk's or Register's Office
Staff in these offices will help answer your questions and give you the paperwork you need. Interpreters are available at no cost. Please tell the court if you need language help when you apply for an order.
3. Fill out the application packet
There are a few forms you need to fill out that ask information about you, the other person, what happened, and what you are asking the court to do. If you need help, you can tell court staff you want to talk to an advocate. Advocates can help you with your paperwork, safety planning, and may be able to give information about free or reduced-charge legal or other services.
4. Go before the judge
You will have a hearing with a judge who will ask you questions about the information on your forms. There will likely be other people in the courtroom because it is a public hearing
5. The judge will make a decision
You will have an answer from the judge the same day, at the end of the hearing. If the judge issues the order you will get a copy of the order. The order will say when it expires and the date of the next hearing.
If the judge does not issue the order, you can come back to court any time to ask again. An advocate or attorney may be able to explain other options.
| Last updated: | December 22, 2023 |
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