How to File for a Restraining Order

Video Transcript

"Someone is harassing you and your family, and you are concerned that it's escalating. What do you do? Do you get a restraining order? Hello, I'm Robert Todd, and I'm here to answer the question, How Do I Get a Restraining Order? Well, the first thing in circumstances of this nature is, call the police if you feel that either you or your family's safety is in jeopardy. You can worry about the paperwork later. But, if and when it comes to the point that you actually need a restraining order, many, many times, individuals in the police department can assist you or direct you to where you need to go to file for a restraining order. And, if that doesn't happen, you can go to your local court's office and ask the clerk for the paperwork, and they will assist you in completing it. Now, it varies from state to state, but, generally, in most states, there's not even a filing fee for filing a restraining order. But, remember, you and your family's personal safety comes first, so you want to make sure that the appropriate authorities are notified of this harassing situation, and worry about the paperwork later. I'm Robert Todd, and thank you for watching."