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Every year, over 12 million women and men in the US fall victim to physical violence, stalking, dating abuse, or rape from their intimate partners. Psychological aggression by an intimate partner has been experienced by almost half of all women and men in the US.

If you feel threatened, harassed, or abused, you have the right to seek protection through a restraining order. With a restraining order, someone is not allowed to touch, approach, or bother you. The purpose of a restraining order is to protect people who are being harassed, abused, or hurt.

Law enforcement can provide assistance and may issue an emergency protective order that offers temporary protection until you can appear in court. But do you need a lawyer for a restraining order? While you can obtain this order without an attorney, consulting a legal professional can be beneficial, especially if the situation is complex. Find out how a restraining order can help you stay safe.

Understanding the Types of Restraining Orders

Numerous restraining orders exist for different purposes relevant to various situations. Prevalent restraining orders relate to domestic violence and are there to protect you from abuse or threats by an intimate partner or even by family members.

If someone at work or in the neighborhood started threatening you, you could also get a legal restraining order against them. A stalking protection order is something you should get if someone is following you around.

There are also orders of protection to keep older people safe from violence and abuse. You can feel safe and at peace if you know which order applies to your situation and each one serves a purpose.

Assessing Your Situation: When to Seek a Restraining Order

Deciding when to file for a restraining order is usually difficult. Always trust your gut. Never hesitate to seek an order whenever there is a threat, harassment, or violence involved.

According to the family law firm website https://www.trottolaw.com/, if one spouse behaves or treats the other spouse in a way that leaves that spouse feeling afraid, threatened, or unsafe, it could result in more than a divorce. This could be grounds for a restraining order.

Unlawful activity by another can make you feel scared. For example, stalking, unwanted contacts, instilling fear, or aggressiveness must be recorded. If you have been worried and anxious, then it is time for you to stand against all abuses.

The Process of Obtaining a Restraining Order

Restraining orders allow for interventions that could protect you from further harm. Collect evidence proving the harassment, such as text messages, e-mails, and photographs.

Go to the local courthouse or their website to obtain the necessary forms. Fill out the forms correctly, stating your immediate situation and reasons for requesting a restraining order.

Once finished, submit the papers to the court clerk. There might be a hearing in which you will explain your case to the judge. If granted, the order will set forth restrictions on the offender. Keep a copy of the order with you and notify law enforcement agencies so you will have their protection.

What to Expect in Court

Show up at the court early to become familiar with its surroundings and find your courtroom. When called, go to the judges’ bench and present your grounds. Introduce proof, like photographs, witness testimonies, and other materials, substantiating your claim.

The opposing side may put forward statements for some time, so be prepared. Maintain your composure and respect at all times.

After hearing both sides, the judges will either immediately or after some time release their decision.

Resources and Support in Restraining Orders

Getting a restraining order may be straightforward, but sometimes you can’t just go through it alone. There is help available to assist you through this difficult phase.

Local domestic violence shelters are required to assist you with legal matters, counseling, and advocacy services related to you. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is also available for immediate assistance.

Find out whether your courthouse houses a self-help center, where they help manage the paperwork. Support groups bring you together with victims who sympathize with your situation and can offer advice in person or via the web. 

Your safety is the priority. Doing this can provide you with peace and a safe environment.