In the event of abuse or other threatening behaviors, there is protection available from the law. Securing a restraining order can protect you from an abusive person, while also creating a legal record that can assist you during the divorce process.
It is important to understand how restraining orders work in the event you need to file one. This guide discusses a few important details to help you make the right decisions.
Are there different types of restraining orders?
In California, people can apply for four types of restraining orders. For instance, harassing behaviors at work can result in a workplace violation order. There are also domestic violence orders, which protect people from abuse in their own homes performed by spouses or other family relations.
If a person is abusing a vulnerable adult, such as an elderly person or a person with special needs, you can secure an elder or dependent adult abuse order. In the event that the person acting in an abusive and threatening manner is not a close relation, you can seek out a civil harassment order.
What can restraining orders actually do?
Restraining orders offer a wide range of protection, which can vary based on the nature of the situation. When it comes to inappropriate conduct, the document can prevent harassment, stalking, and other threatening behaviors. Additionally, it can legally prohibit the subject of the order from contacting the filer for any reason.
Orders can also stipulate that a person must remain a certain distance away from the filer. In addition to the home, these orders can apply to work or school. If you live with an abusive or threatening person, an order can also require them to move out of your home.
Failure to obey a restraining order can result in serious consequences. For instance, violations can result in fines as well as jail time. These penalties will hopefully act as a deterrent to the harassing party.
