When someone you love starts behaving in a way you find threatening, you may consider trying to take out a restraining order on that individual to protect yourself. A restraining order sets certain limitations when it comes to contacting or coming near you. Anyone who violates such an order may face serious sanctions.
According to the California Courts, you may be able to seek a domestic violence restraining order if your situation meets certain criteria.
Grounds for a domestic violence restraining order
You may be able to pursue a domestic violence restraining order if the person threatening, harassing or abusing you is also someone with whom you share a close romantic or familial relationship. For example, you may be able to secure one against a romantic partner, a spouse or a close relative, such as parent, sibling, son or daughter.
Protections available through a domestic violence restraining order
The exact protections a domestic violence restraining order offers may vary from one situation to the next. However, this type of court order might restrict the other party from coming near you, your kids and other family members. It may also set limitations about where the abusive or threatening party may go. It may, too, order the individual to pay child support, turn over any firearms or pay certain bills and expenses. In some instances, it may also mandate the abuser to return certain property, attend an intervention program or stay away from pets you own or pets the two of you once shared.
California recognizes several different types of domestic violence restraining orders. These include temporary, permanent and criminal protective orders.