This is a Complaint pleading for use in litigation of the title matter. Adapt this form to comply with your facts and circumstances, and with your specific state law. Not recommended for use by non-attorneys.
This is a Complaint pleading for use in litigation of the title matter. Adapt this form to comply with your facts and circumstances, and with your specific state law. Not recommended for use by non-attorneys.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A final protective order may last up to two years and, in some instances, may last longer. The Petitioner has the burden of proof and must prove by a “preponderance of the evidence” that family violence has occurred and is likely again to occur.
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.
One of the primary restrictions imposed by a restraining order in California is prohibiting any form of contact between the individual subject to the order and the protected person. Contact can include direct communication, such as: Phone calls.
Key Differences A Harassment Order addresses unwanted behavior that may not necessarily involve physical harm but still causes significant distress to the victim. In contrast, a Restraining Order is typically sought in cases involving a history of violence, physical threat, or other forms of serious harm.