How to Obtain the Necessary Forms for Filing a Restraining Order

If someone is stalking, threatening, or abusing you, the courts may issue a restraining order to keep them at bay. To begin the filing process, you first must obtain all the necessary forms. Follow these steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Telephone
• Attorney or advocate specializing in domestic law

Understand Your State's Laws Regarding Restraining Orders

1. Familiarize yourself with your rights to file for a restraining order as set forth by your state's laws. Factors affecting your eligibility include age and your relationship to the defendant.
2. Contact your county or local court clerk to obtain the forms necessary for filing a restraining order. You can find contact information for most state's court systems by visiting the WomensLaw.org Web site (see Resources below). Select your state from the drop-down menu and click on the ''Links and Resources'' link to find listings for local courts.
3. Download court forms for many states directly from the WomensLaw.org Web site by clicking on the ''Download Court Forms'' link under your specific state.
4. Meet with an advocate or attorney who can provide the forms necessary for filing a restraining order through your local crisis center. You can find contact information for centers in your area on the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence Web site (see Resources below). They also can explain how to fill them out and what evidence may be required when filing.
5. Prepare for your day in court by rehearsing your case and evidence with your advocate.
6. Follow up with your lawyer to ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork.

Tips & Warnings

• In most cases of domestic violence or abuse, control over access to information plays a major role. If you feel too unsafe to obtain these forms from your home, consider utilizing the resources of the public library. You can access the Internet at many branches to find crisis centers and valuable information online. This information includes advocacy groups and forms from your state for filing restraining orders.