To get an ex parte order, an applicant files a written affidavit that tells the detailed story of his or her abuse. The court reads the affidavit and decides if there is a clear and present danger of family violence.
The statewide registry also provides limited public access to protective orders when the protected person has authorized access. This access is subject to strict confidentiality standards to protect victims of family violence, stalking, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
Both forms of legal action prohibit contact by one party to the other. One of the main differences is that restraining orders often last up to one year and are temporary. No-contact agreements are binding contracts that can be removed only by the district attorney or the judge who is working the case.
The Protective Order Registry of Texas is called PROTECT, and it can be found at . The Texas Office of Court Administration maintains it.
I was served with a Temporary Restraining Order. What should I do? Read the TRO carefully and obey it. ... Talk with a lawyer right away about your legal rights. ... Make plans to go to the hearing. ... If you need more time to hire a lawyer or more time to get ready for the hearing, you may be able to reschedule the hearing.