Protective orders
If you’re not safe at home
A protective order is a judge’s written order telling someone to stay away from you and your children. We help you ask for one, and we help you answer one. If you are in danger right now, call 911.
You know your own safety better than anyone. We explain the law, and you decide what to ask for.
We can help you with
Asking a court for a protective order
Preparing for the hearing, step by step
Temporary custody and support while the order is in place
Answering an order someone has asked for against you
Visiting this site
Keeping this visit private
Someone who watches your phone or computer can see what you open. These steps help.
Use the exit button
Leave this site, at the top of every page, closes this page and opens a weather site at once.
Clear your history
After you leave, clear your browser history, or read in a private window.
Use a safer device
A phone or computer at the library, work or a friend’s home may be safer than your own.
Call a 24-hour line
The National Domestic Violence Hotline answers at 1-800-799-7233, any hour.
Questions about asking for an order
Does the other person find out I’m asking?
Usually they must be formally notified before a full hearing, though a judge can sometimes grant a short temporary order first. We explain what to expect for your situation.
What if we share a home or children?
A judge can order one person out of a shared home and can set temporary parenting time and support. We’ll help you ask for what you need to be safe.
Will the order be enforced?
Breaking an order can lead to arrest and penalties. An order is a legal tool, not a promise that nothing will happen, so we also help you plan for your safety around it.
What if I’ve been served with an order?
Don’t ignore it. There’s a hearing date, and the judge will listen to both sides. Call us before then.
Not sure it’s safe to call?
Send a message instead, and tell us the safest way and time to reach you.