Restraining Orders

In some states, you will need a certified copy of your protective order. A certified copy says that it is a “true and correct” copy. It is signed and initialed by the clerk of court and usually has some kind of court stamp on it. In Iowa, a certified order has a stamp and a raised seal on it.

The copy you originally received may or may not have been a certified copy. If you do not have a certified copy, call or go to the court that gave you the order. Ask the clerk’s office for a certified copy.

Note: It is a good idea to always have a copy of the protective order with you. Bring several copies with you when you move. Leave copies at your workplace, at your home, at your children’s school or daycare, in your car, with a trusted neighbor, and so on. Give a copy to the security guard or front desk person, if there is one, where you live or work. Give a copy of the protective order to anyone who is named in and protected by the order.