How to Check a Restraining Order in Texas

A protective order prohibits one person from coming in close proximity to another person.

Restraining orders, known as protective orders in Texas, can aid in the prevention of violence between two people. A protective order in Texas prohibits one person from coming in close proximity to another person. A protective order is announced to the person it is served against in a letter distributed by a court. The court must deliver the letter explaining the circumstances of the protective order or the order is invalid. You can use the information supplied to you by the court to check the status of the protective order.

Things You'll Need

• Letter announcing the issuing of a protective order

Instructions

1. Read the letter the court issued you pertaining to the protective order. The letter will contain a case number.

2. Contact the court. Only a court can issue a protective order. The number for courts in Texas can be found online.

3. Ask the clerk of the court to check if the protective order stands. Provide the case number and ask if you need to fill out any paperwork or supply identification to acquire the information you are looking for.

4. Travel to the court. Fill out any paperwork and provide any identification necessary to acquire the information you are looking for.

5. Write a letter to The Office of Court Administration if the local court can not provide you with the information you are looking for. Write a letter to:

   Administrative Director

   Office of Court Administration

   P.O. Box 12066

   Austin, Texas 78701

   Provide sufficient information within your letter to identify the record of the protective order.

Tips & Warnings

• In Texas, The Public Information Act does not apply to the courts or the Office of Court Administration.

References

• Texas Courts Online: Judiciary's Open Records Policy/Procedures
• Texas Protective Order Kit: English Version

Resources

• Texas Municipal Courts by County