Protective orders
If you're afraid, start here
A protective order is a court order telling someone to stay away from you, your home or your children. Asking for one is paperwork and a hearing, and you don't have to face either alone.
If you're in danger right now, call 911. This site has a Quick exit button at the top of every page.
Reaching me safely
Call or text from a phone the other person can't see
Tell me if I may leave a voicemail or send an email
Use Quick exit, then clear your history on a shared device
Flat fee
Protective order papers, plus court fees where charged
The process
How an order gets made
- 01
You tell me what happened
At your pace, by the way you've said is safe. I write down only what the court needs.
- 02
I prepare the request
The forms and a clear statement, ready to file. You read every page first.
- 03
A judge reviews it
In many courts a temporary order can be issued quickly while the case goes forward. I'll tell you what yours does.
- 04
The hearing
We prepare together, and you decide if you want me beside you. If the order is granted, I explain exactly what it means.
Hard questions, plain answers
Will the other person know I contacted you?
Not from this office. I only reach you the way you tell me is safe. The court notifies the other person when it processes a request, and I'll explain when and how before you file.
What does it cost?
The papers are a flat fee, quoted in writing before you pay anything. Some courts charge no filing fee for protective orders, and I'll tell you what yours charges.
What if I'm not sure it's serious enough?
You don't have to be sure. Tell me what's been happening and I'll tell you what a court can do about it.
Can an order cover my children?
Often, yes. Courts can include children in an order or set temporary custody. I'll explain how it works for your family.
Tell me which way is safe to reach you
Call, text or write. I'll answer the way you ask, and only that way.