Restraining orders

There are different types of restraining orders. Most restraining orders can order a person to not contact someone and stay away from them. Some restraining orders can include more protection, like order a person to move out, or include protections for your children or other family members.

Types of restraining orders

If you need a restraining order, first find out what type of restraining order you need. Your court's Self-Help Center can help if you're not sure. Once you know, select that type to find the type of protection it offers, how to ask for one, and how to renew or enforce it.

If someone asked for a restraining order against you, select the type of restraining order to find out more about your options. The forms you were given have the name of the type of restraining order listed on them.

Which type you can ask for

Description of all types of restraining orders.
Domestic violence

If you are or were in a relationship with someone or are closely related to them.
Civil harassment

If you are not in a relationship and not closely related. For example, neighbors or coworkers.
Elder or dependent adult

If the person to be protected is 65 or older, or a dependent adult.
Workplace violence

An employer asks for protection for an employee.
Gun violence

If someone has threatened to harm themselves or others with a gun.
School violence

A school administrator or safety officer asks for protection for a student.
Emergency and criminal protective orders

Police can ask for in an emergency and judges can make in a criminal case.

Restraining orders

Types of restraining orders

Which type you can ask for

Domestic violence

Civil harassment

Elder or dependent adult

Workplace violence

Gun violence

School violence

Emergency and criminal protective orders

Related topics

Criminal court

Victims' rights

Resources for victims

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