Restraining Order

Victims of domestic violence may file a petition requesting orders for relief including:

• • • Restraining the abuser from attacking the victim and other family members
    • Directing the abuser to leave the household
    • Preventing the attacker from entering the residence, place of employment, etc. of the victim
    • Restraining the abuser from interfering with minor children in the custody of the victim
    • Temporary custody of minor children if a restraining order against the offender is obtained and the offender willingly violates the order, he/she will be arrested and, in most cases, taken to jail if still present when officers arrive. (OC Sheriff’s Department)

As a victim, you have the right to go to the Superior Court and file a petition requesting any of the following orders for relief:

• • • An order restraining the attacker from abusing the victim and other family members.
    • An order directing the attacker to leave the household.
    • An order preventing the attacker from entering the residence, school, business, or place of employment of the victim.
    • An order awarding the victim or the other parent custody of or visitation with a minor child or children.
    • An order restraining the attacker from molesting or interfering with minor children in the custody of the victim.
    • An order directing the party not granted custody to pay support of the minor children, if that party has a legal obligation to do so.
    • An order directing the defendant to make specified debt payments coming due while the order is in effect.