Restraining Order Defense in Riverside County

If you have just been served with a restraining order in Riverside County, the situation is urgent. Hearings are set fast—often within three weeks—and one wrong move can cost you your freedom, your family, and your career. Consult with a Riverside Restraining Order Lawyer today.

Power Trial Lawyers is ready to defend you. Call (888) 808-2179 now for a confidential consultation.

Why Riverside County Restraining Order Defense Is Different

Riverside County is one of California’s largest jurisdictions, covering both urban and rural areas. The courts take restraining order cases seriously, especially when firearms or domestic violence allegations are involved. Judges expect well-prepared responses, strong supporting evidence, and strict compliance with court rules.

Consequences of a restraining order include:

• Criminal exposure: Any violation can mean arrest, prosecution, and jail time.
• Firearms restrictions: Mandatory surrender of all firearms and ammunition.
• Family law impact: Domestic violence findings can create a presumption against custody.
• Employment risks: Security clearances, professional licenses, and jobs requiring background checks are jeopardized.

Types of Restraining Orders in Riverside County

• Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVROs): For spouses, ex-partners, co-parents, or household members. Issued on “reasonable proof” of past abuse.
• Civil Harassment Restraining Orders (CHROs): For neighbors, roommates, coworkers, acquaintances, or strangers. Requires “clear and convincing” evidence of harassment.
• Workplace Violence Restraining Orders (WVROs): Employers file to protect employees from threats, violence, or harassment.
• Elder/Dependent Adult Restraining Orders: Protects seniors and dependent adults from abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation.
• Gun Violence Restraining Orders (GVROs): Removes firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others.

Temporary vs. Permanent Restraining Orders

Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs)

• Issued on the day the petition is filed or shortly after.
• Often granted without your side being heard (“ex parte”).
• Last until the hearing—typically 2–3 weeks.
• Can immediately force you out of your home, require firearm surrender, and cut off contact with children.

Permanent Restraining Orders (Orders After Hearing)

• Decided at the court hearing, where both sides present evidence and testimony.
• Can last up to five years for most civil and family restraining orders.
• Can be renewed, even permanently, if the judge believes protection is still needed.
• Carry the same force as TROs—violations can mean arrest, jail, and criminal charges.

What to Expect at a Restraining Order Hearing in Riverside County

1. Case Call: Judges handle many petitions each day. Be on time, organized, and prepared.
2. Petitioner’s Evidence: The person requesting the restraining order testifies first and may call witnesses or submit documents.
3. Your Defense: With Power Trial Lawyers by your side, we present your evidence, cross-examine the petitioner, and challenge weak or false claims.
4. Judge’s Decision: After both sides present, the judge decides whether to deny the petition, grant a limited order, or issue a full order after hearing.
5. If an Order Is Granted: We immediately work to narrow its terms (distance requirements, custody carve-outs, firearm compliance deadlines).
6. If the Petition Is Denied: We take steps to clean up the record, including firearms return and reputational safeguards.

Courthouse-by-Courthouse Breakdown in Riverside County

Restraining order hearings are heard across several major courthouses:

Riverside Historic Courthouse (Downtown Riverside)

• Address: 4050 Main Street, Riverside, CA 92501
• Types heard: DVROs, CHROs, Elder Abuse, GVROs
• Notes: This is the main hub for restraining order filings. Judges handle a heavy calendar and expect concise, well-supported arguments.

Larson Justice Center (Indio)

• Address: 46-200 Oasis Street, Indio, CA 92201
• Types heard: DVROs, Civil Harassment, Elder Abuse
• Notes: Serves Coachella Valley. High volume of family-related restraining orders; judges move hearings quickly.

Southwest Justice Center (Murrieta)

• Address: 30755-D Auld Road, Murrieta, CA 92563
• Types heard: DVROs, Civil Harassment
• Notes: Covers Southwest Riverside County. Local practice emphasizes firearms compliance and proper service.

Banning Justice Center (Banning)

• Address: 311 East Ramsey Street, Banning, CA 92220
• Types heard: DVROs, Civil Harassment
• Notes: Smaller courthouse; hearings are more streamlined but deadlines are enforced without exception.

Blythe Courthouse (Blythe)

• Address: 265 North Broadway, Blythe, CA 92225
• Types heard: Limited—primarily DVROs and Civil Harassment
• Notes: Rural courthouse; preparation matters because continuances are rarely granted.

What To Do If You’re Served With a Restraining Order in Riverside

• Read every page of the order. Note no-contact rules, stay-away provisions, and firearm requirements.
• Comply immediately. Even if the order is false or unfair, violations risk arrest.
• Surrender firearms if required. Turn them in, sell, or store them with a licensed dealer and file proof with the court.
• Preserve your evidence. Save texts, emails, photos, call logs, and witness names.
• Calendar your hearing date. Deadlines in Riverside courts are short.
• Hire a lawyer fast. Without experienced counsel, you risk a permanent order that can follow you for years.

How Power Trial Lawyers Defends Restraining Orders in Riverside County

• Local knowledge: We defend clients at Riverside, Indio, Murrieta, Banning, and Blythe courthouses.
• Firearms expertise: We design immediate compliance plans to protect against criminal exposure.
• Custody and family law strategy: Fighting DVRO findings that affect custody and visitation.
• Evidence-driven defense: Subpoenas, digital forensics, and witness prep to dismantle weak claims.
• Aggressive courtroom advocacy: Persuasive cross-examination and legal arguments tailored to Riverside judges.

FAQs for Riverside County Restraining Orders

How long does a restraining order last in Riverside County?
A temporary order lasts until the hearing, usually 2–3 weeks. If granted at hearing, an order can last up to 5 years, and can be renewed.

What happens if I violate a restraining order?
Violations can result in immediate arrest and criminal charges. Penalties may include jail, fines, and probation.

Can restraining orders affect my custody rights?
Yes. A domestic violence finding creates a presumption against awarding custody to the restrained person.

Do I have to give up my guns?
Yes, if the order requires it. You must surrender firearms and file proof with the court or risk separate criminal charges.

Which courthouse will my case be heard in?
It depends on your location. Most cases are handled at Riverside Historic Courthouse, Larson Justice Center (Indio), or Southwest Justice Center (Murrieta).

Consult with a Riverside County Restraining Order Lawyer

Riverside County judges move fast, and the consequences of a restraining order are serious. Waiting or trying to handle this alone puts you at risk.

Call Power Trial Lawyers today at (888) 808-2179 for immediate, confidential representation.