If you are a victim of domestic violence family court offers help in the form of a temporary domestic violence restraining order. This option is available when you have a specific relationship with the abuser. If you date or used to date, if you have children together, or if you are married you can apply for a domestic violence restraining order. It can be against a relative such as a child, a parent, or in-laws.
The abuse can be physical, emotional or both. It can include the destruction of your personal property. Controlling behavior as to how you dress, who your friends are, or access to finances. It can be threats, isolation, or degradation.
A domestic violence restraining order can help. The court can order the person stay away from you, your home, your work, your school. They can order the person to move out of the home you share. They can make child custody orders along with orders for support.
The request is done without notice to the person you are seeking protection from. The court will either grant your orders in full, grant some of the requested orders and deny others, or deny your request entirely.
Important: the orders are not in effect until the person is personally served.
My office can advise you and draft the documents needed.
If you are experiencing domestic violence you can call the National Domestic Violence hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or call 911 if you feel you are in danger.
Helpful links: Restraining Orders: What is the legal definition of domestic violence in California? | WomensLaw.org
Domestic Violence Restraining Orders in California | California Courts | Self Help Guide