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Getting a restraining order: What you need

by | Dec 28, 2017 | Uncategorized

If your life is in danger or your feel you could be attacked in your own home, a restraining order might be the right choice for you. There are a few things you should know about restraining orders before you decide to get one.

Getting a restraining order is relatively easy. You have to fill out paperwork, go to a hearing and wait for a judge to determine if one is necessary. Prior to the court date, you may be granted a temporary restraining order immediately for your protection.

When you go before the judge, you need to show that you are in danger. Restraining orders are used to prevent individuals from threatening you or engaging in threatening behaviors. Some restraining orders do this by requiring that the accused stays a certain distance away from the victim. Restraining orders may also limit phone calls, interactions with family or friends or other behaviors that you find troubling. Of course, it is necessary to prove that those orders are necessary.

How can you prove a restraining order is necessary?

Start by collecting evidence. Collect evidence like threatening text messages, videos of arguments or abuse or have a witness willing to testify. You’ll need to be specific, so remember to identify each time something happened. For example, “on day one, he hit me. On day two, he demeaned me during a game with friends.” Specific information helps judges make decisions on the case more conclusively.

If you need a restraining order, talk to your attorney or call the police as soon as possible. You have a right to be safe, and they can help.

Source: FindLaw, “What Proof Do You Need for a Restraining Order?,” Deanne Katz, accessed Dec. 28, 2017