How to File a Restraining Order in Bridgeport, CT

A restraining order tells an abusive person to stop hurting you or threatening violence against you. If you are being constantly harassed by someone and feel that your life may be in danger, it is critical that you go to court and get a restraining order against your abuser.

Instructions

1. Fill out forms. You will need an application for relief from abuse and an affidavit for relief of abuse. The application is the basic information about you and the abuser. Your affidavit will explain exactly why you are seeking a restraining order. You may also want to fill out a request for nondisclosure of location information form to keep your address hidden from the abuser. All forms are listed below under Resources. You can also pick up the forms at the court clerk's office at the county courthouse.

2. Submit forms to the Court Clerk. You will submit your forms at:

   Fairfield Judicial District Superior Court
   1061 Main St.
   Bridgeport, CT 06604

   The clerk will give your documents to the judge at that time. The judge will issue a temporary restraining order that will be in effect until the hearing. The clerk will give you a copy of the restraining order and fax the order to the local police department in the community where the abuser lives. A copy will also be faxed to the police department where you live and work.

3. Call the state marshal. The state marshal will serve the restraining order on the individual at no charge. The state marshal must serve the person at least five days before the scheduled hearing. The court clerk will provide you with a list of state marshals.

4. Go to the court hearing. The restraining order will immediately end if you fail to show up for court. Present your case to the judge. The judge will decide if the restraining order should be put in force for 180 days. If the judge decides to grant the restraining order, both you and the abuser will receive certified copies of the order. Local police departments where you live and work, and where the abuser lives, will each be sent a copy of the order.

5. Enforce the restraining order. Have absolutely no contact with the abuser. Be sure to call the police if the person violates the order.

References

• The Legal Assistance Resource Center of Connecticut: Ask for Restraining Order (PDF)

Resources

• State of Connecticut Superior Court: Application for Relief from Abuse
• State of Connecticut Superior Court: Affidavit for Relief of Abuse
• State of Connecticut Superior Court: Request for Non-Disclosure of Location
• The Legal Assistance Resource Center of Connecticut: Ask for Restraining Order