Requirements for a protective order for domestic violence to be issued include establishing that family violence has occurred and is likely to occur again without such an order. The burden of proof for this involves what's known as a “preponderance of evidence” favoring the accuser.
California law defines abuse as any act that puts you, your children, or another person in immediate fear of injury, as well as any act that causes harm to you or your property. If such harm exists, you can file a request for an order to keep the abuser away.
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.
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.
Using the facts of the incident only, keep your statement brief and to the point. Briefly describe the most recent incident of abuse and/or threats of abuse or other behaviors. Focus on the actual behavior. Do not include prior incidents, (that will be the next paragraph).
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.
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.
Testimonies from the accuser and witnesses are often considered the most reliable and impactful evidence. Audio or video recordings and photographs can also be used to provide evidence in a harassment case. Forensic evidence, such as emails and text messages, can be used if available.
Filing a Civil Lawsuit Talk to an attorney who specializes in civil harassment cases. Gather evidence of the harassment. Collect evidence of the damage the harassment has caused you. Draft a complaint listing your allegations and damages. File your complaint with your local civil court.
If the judge decides that there was abuse and that there is also a credible threat to the plaintiff's safety, a final order of protection will be granted and will last for up to one year. The plaintiff will be directed to go to the clerks counter to wait for the order.