Temporary Restraining Orders & Requirements
A temporary restraining order (TRO) is a powerful legal tool for victims of domestic violence or harassment. TROs are easy to obtain and can bring peace of mind to those who need them.
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Definition
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A TRO is a court order preventing someone from contacting you, harassing you, threatening you or abusing you in any way.
Against Whom
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A TRO can be issued against anyone intending you harm, and are most often issued in domestic violence cases.
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Requirements
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A TRO can be obtained in a day by filling out some paperwork at the courthouse, which will then be approved by a judge and served on the offender by a sheriff or marshal.
Length
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TROs are issued only for a brief time, typically less than a month. During that time, you and the offender will be required to attend a hearing to determine if the order should be modified, canceled, extended or changed into a permanent restraining order.
Violations
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A TRO is enforceable by law, and violating the terms of the order is a criminal offense. If the offender violates the order, you should immediately call the police.
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