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Make edits, fill in missing information, and update formatting in US Legal Forms—just like you would in MS Word.

Download a copy, print it, send it by email, or mail it via USPS—whatever works best for your next step.

Sign and collect signatures with our SignNow integration. Send to multiple recipients, set reminders, and more. Go Premium to unlock E-Sign.

If this form requires notarization, complete it online through a secure video call—no need to meet a notary in person or wait for an appointment.

We protect your documents and personal data by following strict security and privacy standards.
In Harris County, you can file your pro se petition and waiver in-person at the Harris County Civil Intake Office located on the first floor of the Civil Courthouse located at 201 Caroline Street. Civil intake office hours are 8 AM - PM Monday to Friday.
A protective order is only available for people who have experienced dating or family violence and it can lead to criminal penalties (the Respondent/violator can be arrested) if violated. A restraining order can be ordered by a court for many different types of situations and only has civil penalties if violated.
In most cases, a Protective Order will last up to 2 years. There are some situations where a court can issue an order that lasts longer than 2 years. Although you may file these forms without having a lawyer, you are encouraged to get a lawyer to help you in this process.
State to the court that you would like a restraining order and what you would like the court to order. Be as specific as possible. Examples: “I am asking the court to grant me a _____ month/year injunction.” “I want no contact in person, at home, by phone, at work, by mail or through third parties.”
If you are seeking a family violence Protective Order, the law requires that you prove family violence has occurred and family violence is likely to occur in the future. If you are seeking a stalking Protective Order, the law requires that you prove that there are reasonable grounds that you are the victim of stalking.
A significant change in circumstances, such as improved behavior, completion of anger management or counseling programs, or evidence that the risk of violence has diminished, may provide grounds for seeking the dismissal of a restraining order.
Lack of Jurisdiction The respondent can argue that the court does not have jurisdiction to issue a restraining order. This defense can be raised, for instance, if the alleged incidents of domestic violence or harassment did not occur within the jurisdiction of the court.
The burden of proof is on the protected party to prove to the court by a preponderance of the evidence that there is a reasonable apprehension of future abuse.
Permanent protective order - These orders are issued after the court has gone through all the legal proceedings and reviewed all evidence. Permanent protective orders can be life-long standing orders that the accused person must obey.