File your petition for gun violence restraining order

You can file your forms:

• In person at the courthouse: Find the courthouse in your county that will file restraining order papers by going to your court's website.
  • At the courthouse, you’ll file the forms by giving the original and 2 copies to the clerk.
  • Your forms will then be reviewed by a judge.
  • The clerk will let you know when to return to pick up your court papers. 
• Online (called e-filing). Go to your court's website to find out how to e-file.
  • The court will return your forms to you electronically.
• By leaving in a drop box (if available). Many courts have drop boxes where you can leave your forms, either inside or outside the courthouse.
  • If you put your court papers in a drop box make sure include the original plus 2 copies, and use an envelope or rubber band to keep all your papers together. 
  • You will still have to return to the courthouse to pick up your court papers. 
  • Using a drop box may not be the fastest way to get your papers reviewed by a judge. If you need protection right away, take your forms to a court clerk or file them online.

💬 You can also contact your nearest self-help center for guidance on where to file.

• If you asked for a temporary restraining order, the judge may be able to review your request that same day.
  • If not, you will need to go back to the courthouse the next day.
• Ask the clerk when you should return to pick up your court papers.

📌 If you filed your papers online, the forms will be returned to you electronically.