Restraining Orders

Here are some things that you may want to consider when you leave the courthouse. You will have to evaluate each one and decide if it is safe and appropriate for you to do.

• Review the order before you leave the courthouse. If something is wrong or missing, ask the clerk how to correct it before you leave.
• Make several copies of the protective order as soon as possible.
• Keep a copy of the order with you at all times.
• Leave copies of the order at your workplace, at your home, at the children’s school or daycare, in your car, with a trusted neighbor, and so on.
• If you have a security guard or front desk person where you live or work, give him/her a copy of the order and a photo of the abuser.
• Give a copy of the order to anyone who is named in and protected by the order.
• If the court has not given you an extra copy for your local law enforcement agency, take one of your extra copies and deliver it to them.
• You may wish to consider changing your locks and your phone number.

You may also want to make a safety plan. People can do a number of things to increase their safety during violent incidents, when preparing to leave an abusive relationship, and when they are at home, work, and school. Many abusers obey protective orders, but some do not. So, it’s important to build on the things you have already been doing to keep yourself safe. Go to our Safety Planning page for suggestions.