A temporary restraining order (TRO) has the ability to save lives. It’s a legal document that helps protect anyone who finds him or herself a victim of domestic violence. The court order requires that the alleged abuser stays away from the victim and imposes distance requirements. Many basic TROs require the accused to stay at least 100 yards away at all times.
Anyone can face a TRO, whether it’s a parent, girlfriend, boyfriend, uncle, aunt or other person causing harm to the victim. As a result of domestic violence escalating in these situations in the past, some circumstances now restrict those accused of domestic violence from purchasing firearms that could be used to harm the victim.
How does someone get a TRO?
A TRO is filed after an ex parte order from the judge of your case. You can obtain the TRO itself by completing paperwork at your local courthouse, but it’s a good idea to consult your attorney to make the process easier. With the right support, you can get the paperwork filed and have the TRO implemented on the same day, helping protect you quickly.
What do you do with a TRO?
You need to keep it in your possession at all times, so if the abuser violates the terms and the police are called, you have the document to present. The TRO has to be served to the abuser, but you don’t have to do that. A marshal may do so on your behalf. Know that if the TRO is violated, you have a right to call the authorities to the scene.
If you need a TRO, your attorney can help. It’s possible to get it right away, so you can feel safer.
Source: FindLaw, “What Is a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO)?,” Neetal Parekh, accessed May 01, 2017