Riverside Restraining Order Attorney

Restraining Order Petitions in California

If you have been named in a restraining order petition, consult with a Riverside restraining order lawyer at once regarding your rights. A competent attorney can explain restraining order laws and discuss how the petition can be challenged. Restraining orders are issued to prohibit a person from contact or communicating with another individual, this includes emails, phone calls and letters, as well as verbal communication. It is a legal remedy that is often used to prevent domestic violence in cases involving spouses, ex-spouses, co-habitants, domestic partners, and people involved in intimate relationships.

Types of Restraining Orders in California

There are various types of restraining orders and protective orders that can be requested depending on the circumstances of the case, including:

• Domestic Violence Restraining Order - Used to prevent contact or communication between two parties involved in a domestic violence case.
• Emergency Protective Order - Issued by law enforcement for 5 days on an emergency basis in domestic abuse cases.
• Criminal Protective Order - Issued by the District Attorney's Office in domestic violence cases.

After a petition for a Domestic Restraining Order has been filed, a temporary restraining order will usually be issued on an immediate basis. A hearing will be held a few weeks later to determine if the order will be permanent for a period of one to three years.

When Are Restraining Orders Issued?

Restraining orders are frequently issued in domestic violence cases to prevent a person from contacting or communicating with a family or household member. This can include emails, letters, phone calls, driving by the petitioner’s house or visiting their place of employment. Restraining orders can be issued in cases involving spouses, ex-spouses, domestic partners, cohabitants, and people involved in an intimate relationship.

When a restraining order is violated, it can result in a misdemeanor or felony criminal charge.

Penalties in an order violation case may include:

• Jail time
• Fines
• Court-ordered counseling
• Contempt of court