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.
Step 1: Go to the district attorney's office or the courthouse to file. Step 2: Fill out the forms. Step 3: A judge will review your petition. Step 4: Service of process. Step 5: The hearing for a permanent protective order.
The specific elements you need to prove to get a restraining order vary from state to state, but in general, you need to show: A specific instance or instances of abuse or harassment (such as sexual assault by an intimate partner) The threat of violence or of further abusive behavior or harassment.