A domestic violence restraining order (DVRO) is a court order that protects you from someone you have a close relationship with — a spouse, partner, family member, or someone you have dated or lived with. California law lets you request protection quickly, often with temporary orders the same day. Here is how it works.
Who can request one
A DV restraining order is for protection from someone you have a close or domestic relationship with. If the person is a neighbor, coworker, or stranger, you would instead seek a civil harassment restraining order (form CH-100). The forms differ, but the goal — protection — is the same.
Step 1: Request the order (DV-100)
You start with the Request for Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DV-100), where you describe the most recent and worst incidents. You can ask for personal-conduct orders, stay-away orders, and move-out orders, and include children if needed.
Step 2: Temporary order (DV-110)
A judge can issue a Temporary Restraining Order (DV-110) — often the same or next day — that protects you until your hearing. Temporary orders typically last until the court date, usually within about three weeks.
Step 3: Serve the other person
The restrained person must be personally served with the paperwork before the hearing, and a proof of service is filed. You cannot serve the papers yourself — a friend over 18, the sheriff, or a process server can do it.
Step 4: The hearing
At the hearing the judge decides whether to grant a longer-term order (the DV-130), which can last up to five years. Bring evidence — photos, messages, police reports, and witnesses if available.
How Curbside Legal helps
We prepare your complete restraining-order packet — every form, properly completed and organized — so the paperwork is one less thing to worry about during a hard time. We handle both DV and civil harassment matters. See pricing or start your intake. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Curbside Legal is a legal document preparation service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.