Restraining order california 2026

A civil harassment restraining order can be granted against someone who has: harassed, threatened, or harmed you physically or emotionally, or. stalked you, and. done these things anywhere, including online.

In California, filing a Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) is free, while a Civil Harassment Restraining Order (CHRO) usually costs about $435-$450 unless you can prove violence, stalking, or threats, in which case its also free, and you can apply for a fee waiver for other CHRO cases if you cant afford the fee. Gun Violence Restraining Orders are also free to file. When Theres NO Fee: Domestic Violence (DVRO): Always free to file and serve. Civil Harassment (CHRO): No fee if you state in your application that the person has been violent, threatened violence, or stalked you. Gun Violence (GVRO): No filing fee. When There IS a Fee: Civil Harassment (CHRO): If your case doesnt involve violence, stalking, or threats, the filing fee is typically $435-$450, but you can apply for a fee waiver (Form FW-001) if you qualify. Key Takeaway: The cost depends on the type of restraining order and the specific circumstances of your case, with domestic violence and threats of violence always qualifying for free filing. For legal advice, consult a professional. Fill out civil harassment restraining order forms? See if you have to pay a fee or how to get a fee waiver. To ask for this kind of restraining order, you may have to pay the courCalifornia Courts Self-Help (.gov)Restraining Orders: How much does a civil harassment order cost?If you are requesting the civil harassment order against a person who was violent, threatened you with violence, stalked you, or aWomensLaw.org

A domestic violence restraining order can provide you with protection right away: First, you turn in your request. Then, a judge will decide quickly whether to grant temporary protection (a termporary restraining order or TRO) The whole process can take a few weeks to months, depending on how complicated your case is.

The fastest way to get a restraining order is to call 911 (if in immediate danger) or go to the police so they can request an Emergency Protective Order (EPO) from a judge, providing instant, short-term protection (e.g., 72 hours). For longer-term protection, file a petition at your local courthouse (family court) to get a temporary restraining order (TRO) by the same or next business day, which requires a judge to review your case quickly, focusing on immediate danger and specific details of abuse. For Immediate Danger (Hours/Days) Call 911: If you are in immediate physical danger, call 911 for police response. Police Request EPO: An officer can request an Emergency Protective Order (EPO) from a judge, which takes effect immediately and lasts a few days (e.g., 72 hours). File for Longer Order: While the EPO is active, go to the courthouse to file for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) for longer protection, as judges review these quickly (same or next day). For Urgent Protection (Same Day/Next Day) Go to the Courthouse: Visit the family court in the county where you live or where the abuse occurred. File Petition: Tell the Clerk of Court you need a protective order and fill out the petition with specific, direct details of abuse (when, where, how). Judge Review: The clerk gives it to a judge who decides on a TRO that same day or the next, often without the abuser present (ex parte). Service: The order must be served (delivered) to the abuser, often by law enforcement. Key Tips for Speed Be Clear Concise: Provide only essential, recent information in your petition; long narratives delay the process. Gather Evidence: Have photos, texts, or medical records ready if possible, as they support your case. Seek Support: Domestic violence agencies can help with paperwork and understanding your rights. For legal advice, consult a professional. Domestic Violence Restraining Orders in CaliforniaWhat if you need protection right away? In most counties, you will not talk to a judge right away. But, a judge will make a decisiCalifornia Courts Self-Help (.gov)California Restraining Orders - WomensLaw.orgIf a police officer responds to a domestic violence call, the police officer can call a judge anytime, day or night and ask that aWomensLaw.org

(3) Harassment is unlawful violence, a credible threat of violence, or a knowing and willful course of conduct directed at a specific person that seriously alarms, annoys, or harasses the person, and that serves no legitimate purpose.