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.
A restraining order is a court order requiring a person to do (or not do) certain things. In the context of online abuse, a restraining order prevents the perpetrator from further contacting and harassing the victim.
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.
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.
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 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.
You can E-File using this link: eFileTexas | Official E-Filing System for Texas, mail to Travis County District Clerk, PO Box 679003, Austin, TX 78767 or hand deliver documents to us by appointment only. Call (512) 854-9457 or send an email to District.eFile@traviscountytx for any questions.