Practical guidance when safety and family decisions intersect.
Concerns about abuse can affect your home, your children, and your ability to plan what comes next. A domestic violence restraining order, often called a DVRO, is a civil court order that can provide protection from abuse by someone with whom you have a qualifying close relationship.
Ariel Brownell handles domestic violence restraining order matters with attention to both the legal issues and the people affected. Our Walnut Creek firm focuses on Contra Costa County and also welcomes matters in Alameda and Solano counties.
When a DVRO may be appropriate
A DVRO may be available when the other person is a current or former spouse, domestic partner, dating partner, your child’s other parent, or a qualifying close relative. The relationship matters when choosing the appropriate type of restraining order.
If the person is a neighbor, coworker, or someone outside a qualifying close relationship, a civil harassment restraining order may be the appropriate option. We can help you understand which process fits your circumstances.
Abuse can extend beyond physical violence
California’s protections are not limited to physical injury. Depending on the facts, abuse can include threats, stalking, harassment, emotional or psychological abuse, and controlling conduct that interferes with a person’s independence. Examples can include isolating someone from friends or family or restricting access to money or basic needs. Conduct online may also be relevant.
You do not have to wait for a physical injury to explore your options. A careful account of what happened, when it happened, and how it affected you can help clarify the issues the court needs to consider.
What protection can the court provide?
Depending on the circumstances, a DVRO can include orders limiting contact, requiring someone to stay away or move out of a shared home, and protecting children or pets. The court may also address child custody, visitation, and support when applicable. Firearm and other prohibited-item restrictions can apply.
The protections available depend on the relationship, the evidence, and the orders requested. The judge decides whether to grant relief and what terms to include.
Understanding the court process
The process generally involves:
- Preparing and filing court papers describing the conduct and the protection requested. A judge reviews any request for temporary protection before the hearing.
- Arranging proper service of the court papers on the other person and filing proof of service.
- Preparing for the hearing, including relevant messages, photographs, documents, and witness information.
- Attending the hearing and completing any further paperwork or service the court requires.
A temporary decision is separate from the decision made after a hearing. Correct forms, clear supporting information, and attention to deadlines all matter. Contra Costa has local filing procedures, so the right courthouse and current instructions should be checked for your situation.
If you have received restraining order papers
Read every document carefully, note the hearing date, and follow any temporary orders already issued. Disagreeing with the allegations does not allow you to disregard an existing order. Prompt legal advice can help you understand your options and prepare for the hearing.
Your next step
Visit our Contact page to schedule a Zoom consultation with Ariel about your circumstances and the next steps available to you. Consultations are paid appointments.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911. Do not wait for a consultation to seek emergency help.
Court resources
California Courts: Domestic violence restraining orders · Contra Costa Superior Court guidance