Protective orders
When you need to be safe first
If you are in danger right now, call 911. The quick exit button at the top of this page takes you away from this site in one tap.
We help people ask the court for a restraining order or a stalking order, and we represent people who have been served with one and want to answer it. We can usually meet within days, by video if that's safer, and we'll talk about safety before we talk about paperwork. If you're unsure whether to file at all, that's a fine reason to call.
Every protective order fee covers
Preparing the petition or your response
Getting ready for the hearing together
A lawyer beside you at the hearing
Calls and emails along the way
What to do if the order is broken
Step by step
How a protective order moves
- 01
A call, when it's safe
Use a phone or device the other person can't see.
- 02
A written quote
One flat fee, usually covering everything through the hearing.
- 03
The petition
We write down what happened, in your words, for the judge.
- 04
A temporary order
The court may issue one the same day, until the hearing.
- 05
The hearing
We go over it twice beforehand, and stand beside you on the day.
- 06
After the order
What it covers, how long it lasts, and what to do if it's broken.
Questions we hear
Do I need a lawyer to get a protective order?
No, and the court has free forms. A lawyer helps most at the hearing, especially if the other person has one.
I've been served with an order. What now?
Don't contact the other person, even to talk it through. Call us before the hearing date on your papers.
Is it safe to contact you?
Use a device the other person can't check, and clear your history after. Our quick exit button leaves this site in one tap.
Is mediation possible in my case?
Often not, when there's been abuse, and we'll never push it. Celia will tell you plainly what she thinks is safe.
Talk to us when it's safe
Call or book a call from a device the other person can't see. If you're in danger now, call 911.
For confidential support any time, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233.