How to File for Restraining Orders in Missouri
Missouri residents can obtain a restraining order if they are victims of stalking, harassment, coercion or other form of personal abuse. The order forbids and makes it a crime for the accused to continue the abusive behavior. Missouri law allows a victim to file for a restraining order at the local circuit court. The court can issue an immediate temporary restraining order. Victims should then attend a court hearing to obtain a full restraining order.
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Instructions
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Any victim of stalking may file for a Missouri restraining order (see References 1). Other types of abuse that may form the basis of a restraining order include assault (threats), battery (physical violence), harassment, coercion, unlawful imprisonment and sexual assault. However, the abuser must have one of the following relationships to the victim in cases of nonstalking abuse: current or former spouse; adult family or household member; or a continuing romantic, intimate or social relationship. Additionally, the victim may file if the victim and abuser have a child together.
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Download the "Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence" publication from the Office of the Missouri Attorney General (see References 1). Although you may use an attorney or file for a restraining order by yourself, you can refer to this publication to find contact information for a county or city victim advocate. The advocates can assist you in petitioning the court for a restraining order.
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Visit the circuit court clerk in the county where you and the abuser live, where any of the abuse took place or where authorities may serve the abuser with the order. If the victim appears alone, the Missouri Adult Abuse Act requires the circuit court to explain the procedure for obtaining a restraining order. The court will provide all the necessary petition forms. Request instructions to file for an "ex parte order of protection." This order is a temporary restraining order that you can receive without giving notice to the accused. You do not have to pay a fee for a Missouri order of protection.
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Speak to the judge who receives your petition. Explain every instance of abuse when the judge asks you what happened. Photographs or other evidence of abuse may help you obtain the order. The judge should issue the temporary order of protection and schedule a hearing, generally within 15 days. The judge will order the authorities to serve the accused.
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Atttend the hearing to get a full restraining order that lasts a minimum of 180 days and a maximum of one year. Bring any witnesses to the abuse to support your case. You may also request two renewals from the judge.
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Tips & Warnings
Contact police every time the abuser violates the order. You should also alert neighbors, co-workers and family members to be on the lookout for the abuser.
On some days, you may find that the circuit court is closed for business. In an emergency, you can visit any other city or county court to request an ex parte order of protection.
The Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence may also offer information and support for abuse victims (see Resources). This nonprofit organization can also sometimes refer victims to a local domestic violence shelter for protection against an abuser. Victims may contact the organization at 573-634-4161.
References
Resources
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