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.
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.
Often, these two terms are used interchangeably, even though there are differences between them. In Texas, a restraining order is often linked to a civil case, whereas a protective order is usually associated with family violence.
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.
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.
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.
Stick to the facts, and provide concrete reasons why the order should be modified or terminated. For example, if you and the other party have a child together, you could state that you need the no-contact order dropped so you can communicate regarding the child's needs and arrange for visitation.
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.