Temporary Restraining Orders (TRO) in California

Temporary restraining orders, or TROs, can provide critical protection if you or a loved one are facing abuse, harassment, or violence from someone. As you navigate this difficult situation, remember help is available through the court system. This guide will gently walk you through how the TRO process works in California – from assessing if one applies to your circumstances, to filing a request, attending the hearing, serving notice if granted, and options to make the order permanent.

Please know you don’t have to cope alone if you feel threatened or at risk of harm from another individual. There are clear legal remedies like restraining orders that may apply. It can feel intimidating, but stay strong through the process. With compassion and diligence, greater peace of mind and safety is very much within reach.

What is a TRO?

A temporary restraining order (TRO) in California legally requires someone to immediately stop threatening, abusive, or violent actions and stay away from protected individuals. TROs provide emergency protection from further harm and can be issued by a judge given reasonable proof of past or imminent danger.

Valid up to 21 days, and extendable 25 more, a TRO goes into effect when approved. It can lead to a permanent order later. Violating a TRO is a misdemeanor. TROs allow urgent protection from domestic abuse, civil harassment, workplace misconduct, elder abuse, and other dangers while one’s case goes through court.

Related Terms: Domestic violence restraining order, civil harassment restraining order, or her ability, restraining order laws, protective order, such an order, protection orders, personal conduct orders

Who Can File for California Restraining Orders?

California, Restraining Orders Protect From:

Domestic Violence Restraining Orders require

– Physical, emotional, or psychological abuse by a spouse, partner, former partner, or other family member.

– Requires evidence of violence, threats, and stalking.

Civil Harassment Restraining Orders

– Threats, stalking, and harassment by non-family members causing distress.

– Needs proof of recent, ongoing acts with credible danger.

Workplace Violations Restraining Order

– Harassment, discrimination, retaliation by bosses/coworkers.

– For ongoing sexual harassment, discrimination, whistleblower retaliation.

Elder or Dependent Adult Abuse Restraining Order

– Physical, emotional, and financial abuse by caregivers of older or dependent adults.

– Covers abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults. This too is a form of domestic violence.

Temporary Restraining Order Process

How to Request a TRO

The first step in getting a temporary restraining order in California is to complete the paperwork and file your request through the court system. Here is an overview of what’s involved:

Forms – You will need to fill out standard Judicial Council forms with details about yourself, the person you want restrained, the relationship, and the facts surrounding the alleged abuse or harassment. Forms cover your declaration, notice to the restrained person, and request for orders.

Filing – Turn in your completed TRO request forms at the family or civil court clerk’s office in the county you live in. Many courthouses have self-help assistance available if you need help.

Evidence – Provide any evidence you have like threatening messages, photos of injuries, police reports, or affidavits from witnesses to back up your claims. Medical records related to abuse can also help support your case.

Application Fee – A filing fee (around $450) is required unless you qualify for a fee waiver based on low-income status. The court can grant a waiver if needed.

Emergency TRO – If there is an immediate threat the judge can issue a temporary emergency TRO right away before the restrained person can respond. This provides fast protection.

The court clerk will help make sure all your TRO paperwork is complete before submitting it to the judge for review. Having clear documentation of the harassment or abuse is key.

The Temporary Restraining Order Hearing

Once your petition and supporting evidence have been submitted, the judge will schedule a hearing, usually within a few weeks. Both you and the person you want to be restrained will need to attend.

• Before the hearing:
  • The person being restrained must be personally “served” with a formal notice about the TRO request and upcoming court date. Often law enforcement will handle the service of notice.
  • Both parties have the chance to file responses with their side of the situation. Any supplemental evidence can also be submitted.
• During the hearing:
  • You will explain to the judge your reasons for requesting the restraining order and provide testimony about the abuse, harassment, threats, etc.
  • The restrained person can dispute or rebut the accusations.
  • Witnesses or experts may be called to speak on both sides.
  • The judge will consider all the evidence and make a decision about issuing a TRO.

If the judge determines you have been or are reasonably likely to become the victim of violence, stalking, serious harassment, or abuse, they will approve a temporary restraining order, effective immediately. The order will include protections like requiring no contact, staying a certain distance away, or moving out of a shared residence.

Serving the Temporary Restraining Order

The temporary restraining order must be officially served to the restrained person for it to take legal effect. This means they must receive an official copy of the signed TRO document and acknowledgment of receipt. Frequently the police handle the service of notice.

A TRO can only be enforced once the person accused has been properly notified. This service of notice also informs them of the date they must return to court if the accuser seeks to have the TRO extended or converted to a permanent order.

Making the TRO Permanent

The initial TRO only remains valid for about three weeks. However, the accuser can request to have the temporary order extended or converted to a permanent restraining order at the second hearing.

Within 21-25 days after the initial notice was served, there will be a follow-up court date. Both parties attend and the judge considers statements and evidence from the hearings to determine if a permanent order is merited.

To qualify, the petitioner must still reasonably fear for their safety and provide continuing evidence of potential harm. The standard of proof is also higher for a permanent injunction.

If issued, the permanent restraining order can remain in effect for up to five years under California law. It maintains all provisions laid out in the temporary order. This gives ongoing legal protection from the restrained person. Violating a permanent order has more severe criminal consequences.

Key Reasons to Get a TRO in California

• Immediately stop threatening, violent, or harassing conduct.
• Protection from physical, emotional, financial or other abuse.
• Prevent contact or require the accused to keep their distance from you.
• Prohibit the person from having guns or firearms.
• Allow police to intervene and enforce the court order.
• Set restrictions on behavior that the person must legally follow.
• Create consequences like fines or jail time if the order is violated.

TROs provide urgent protective measures so victims do not have to remain in dangerous situations while their case navigates the legal system. Having a valid court order mandating no contact or abuse can also help victims feel more empowered and safe.

What Happens if Someone Violates the Restraining Order?

Once an individual has been served notice of a temporary or permanent restraining order against them in California, they must adhere to all provisions laid out in the court order. Purposely violating any terms is considered a misdemeanor offense.

Some examples of TRO violations include:

• Refusing to move out of a shared residence.
• Contacting, calling, texting, or approaching the protected person.
• Going to the victim’s home, workplace, or school.
• Damaging the protected person’s property.
• Enlisting others to contact or harass on your behalf.

If the restrained person disregards the court order, it should be reported to law enforcement and the district attorney’s office. The victim can also file for contempt of court for TRO violations.

Upon a first violation, the guilty party will likely receive fines or probation. But repeat offenses or flagrant violations can potentially lead to civil penalties, counseling, jail time of up to one year, or felony charges in some cases.

Having a TRO in effect and working closely with authorities helps ensure appropriate consequences for offenders who continue their threatening behavior in defiance of a court mandate.

False Accusations and Mutual Restraining Orders

While TROs are an essential legal tool for protection from harm, false accusations can unfortunately occur. Individuals facing what they believe are false allegations have legal rights to respond and defend themselves against the claims.

In some instances where abuse or harassment is mutual or two-sided, judges have the discretion to issue mutual restraining orders. This places protections and behavior limitations on both parties involved. However mutual TROs are only ordered when the court finds credible evidence that each person has been both a victim and perpetrator.

Judges understand the gravity of issuing restrictive court orders that can infringe on personal freedoms. TRO requests therefore require persuasive evidence of harassment, threats, stalking or abuse before being granted – false or frivolous requests will not suffice. The court seeks to balance the rights, safety, and well-being of all involved.

Working with Law Enforcement on Your TRO

The best way to enforce the conditions of your restraining order is to establish a good working relationship with local law enforcement. Provide copies to police departments near your home, workplace, or school so they are informed and better prepared to respond.

If there are ever concerns about violations, do not hesitate to contact the police. Reporting issues right away creates documentation and shows a pattern if stalking or abuse. Law enforcement can pursue violations by:

• Warning the restrained party about TRO terms.
• Making an arrest for persistent or serious violations.
• Forwarding violation reports to the district attorney’s office.
• Seeking increased penalties for repeat offenders.

Police can also provide escorts, increase patrols around your residence, or help with getting belongings from a shared home after a restraining order is in place. Communicating frequently with law enforcement demonstrates you take the TRO seriously and depend on their support.

Tips for the TRO Hearing

Attending the temporary restraining order hearing can be a stressful experience. Having a TRO in place is important for safety, so being prepared helps ensure the judge approves the request.

• Organize documentation – Have police reports, threatening messages, and other evidence of abuse ready to submit. Bring multiple copies.
• Write key points down – Use notes or an outline so important details are covered in your testimony.
• Speak calmly and clearly – Avoid anger or excessive emotion. Stick to the facts.
• Follow court procedures – Listen to the judge and conduct yourself appropriately.
• Mention violations – If the restrained person violated any emergency protective orders already, note that.
• Ask witnesses to attend – Testimony from experts or eyewitnesses can help corroborate the need for a TRO.
• Be on time – Punctuality shows this is a priority and you take it seriously.
• Dress appropriately – Wear clean, neat, professional attire to convey respect for the judge and court.
• Seek help if needed – Look into legal aid services or advocacy groups for assistance with the process.

Restraining orders provide critical, and sometimes lifesaving, protection. Navigating the legal system can be complex, but being prepared, presenting credible evidence, and following court procedures can help demonstrate the need for an enforceable TRO.

Common Questions and Answers About TROs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Temporary Restraining Orders in California:

How quickly can I get a TRO?

If you have evidence of immediate danger, a judge can issue an emergency TRO right away, even before a hearing. Getting the full temporary order can take up to a few weeks after filing your request.

What if I can’t afford the filing fee for the TRO?

You can request a fee waiver from the court based on low income. If you meet eligibility criteria, the judge can waive the typical filing fee.

Where do I file the paperwork for a TRO?

You can submit your request at the family or civil court clerk’s office in the county you live in. Many courthouses have assistance staff to help with paperwork.

Does the restrained person have to know about the TRO?

Yes, they must be formally served with notice about the order, usually by law enforcement. This makes the TRO legally enforceable.

Can a TRO remove someone from a shared home?

Yes, the judge can order the restrained person to move out and avoid all contact. Temporary use and possession of a residence can be granted exclusively.

What if the person violates the restraining order?

You should alert the police immediately. Violating a TRO is a misdemeanor offense that can lead to fines, jail time, and potentially felony charges.

How do I get a permanent restraining order?

Within 21-25 days after filing, there will be another hearing where the judge can extend the temporary order or issue a new permanent one if requirements are still met.

When should I consider getting a TRO?

If you reasonably fear for your physical safety or emotional well-being due to threats, violence, stalking, or abuse. TROs provide legal protection.

Can I request a TRO without involving law enforcement?

While police reports can help support evidence, you can pursue a TRO on your own through the civil court process if you meet the requirements in California law.

How can I increase safety when ending an abusive relationship?

In addition to a restraining order, you may want to change locks, install security systems, stay elsewhere temporarily, and create a safety plan. Involve law enforcement as needed.

What should I do if the abuse persists even after getting a TRO?

Immediately contact the police if the restrained person violates the court order or continues threatening you in any way. Also, inform your attorney.

Getting a temporary restraining order in California is an important step in protecting yourself or loved ones from further abuse and harassment. While the process involves paperwork, court hearings, and other formalities, taking advantage of TRO laws can provide critical safety. With some preparation and understanding of the system, victims of domestic violence, stalking, elder abuse, and other crimes can get legal injunctions ordering their perpetrators to stop the behavior and keep their distance. A TRO creates consequences for violations and gives law enforcement more ability to intervene as well. With the urgent protections in place, victims can then pursue additional remedies through the justice system.

Related Terms: irreparable harm, divorce or custody case, workplace violence restraining orders, child custody, permanent restraining orders, court hearing, status quo, other party, present evidence, family violence. guardian ad litem, health insurance, custody order, divorce case, temporary orders, dating relationship, court issues