Restraining Order Attorney in Southern California | Expert Defense Lawyer

Facing a Restraining Order? You Need an Experienced Attorney Fighting for You.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of restraining orders are filed in California courts. According to the California Domestic Violence Restraining Order System (DVROS), on any given day there are over 200,000 active restraining orders in California—most in Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Diego County, and other Southern California jurisdictions. Behind each of these statistics is a person whose life hangs in the balance.

If you’ve been served with a restraining order—or if someone is threatening to file one against you—you’re facing consequences that could devastate every aspect of your life. A restraining order can cost you your job, your children, your home, your gun rights, your immigration status, and your reputation. In many cases, restraining orders are based on false allegations, exaggerations, or misunderstandings that spiral out of control.

But here’s what you need to know: You have the right to fight back, and with an experienced restraining order defense attorney on your side, you can win.

Power Trial Lawyers is a premier restraining order defense law firm serving Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura Counties. Our attorneys have successfully defended clients against all types of restraining orders—domestic violence restraining orders (DVROs), civil harassment restraining orders, gun violence restraining orders (GVROs), workplace violence restraining orders, and elder abuse restraining orders. We know the law, we know the courts, and we know how to protect your rights.

Don’t face this alone. Call Power Trial Lawyers at 888-808-2179 for a free, confidential consultation. We’re available 24/7 to help you fight back and protect your future.

Why You Need a Restraining Order Attorney: The Stakes Are Too High

Many people make the catastrophic mistake of thinking they can handle a restraining order on their own. “It’s just a civil matter,” they tell themselves. “How hard can it be?” This thinking is dangerous and wrong. Here’s why you absolutely need an experienced restraining order defense attorney:

1. Restraining Orders Carry Severe, Life-Changing Consequences

A restraining order is not “just a piece of paper.” It’s a court order with the full force of law behind it, and the consequences can be devastating:

Criminal Record Impact
While restraining orders are issued in civil court, they are entered into the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS), a statewide database accessible to every police officer in California. Any time you interact with law enforcement—even a simple traffic stop—officers will immediately see the restraining order on their computer screen. Additionally, restraining orders appear on background checks for employment, housing, professional licenses, and more.

Employment Consequences
Many employers conduct background checks, and a restraining order—especially one involving domestic violence or workplace violence—raises immediate red flags. If you work in education, healthcare, law enforcement, security, financial services, or any field requiring professional licenses or security clearances, a restraining order can end your career. In Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego’s competitive job markets, a restraining order puts you at a severe disadvantage.

Loss of Firearm Rights
One of the most immediate consequences of a restraining order in California is the loss of your Second Amendment rights. Under California law, when a restraining order is issued against you, you must:

• Surrender all firearms, ammunition, and magazines within 24 hours
• Not purchase, own, or possess any firearms while the order is in effect
• Sell your firearms to a licensed dealer or turn them over to law enforcement

Violating firearm restrictions while under a restraining order is a crime under California Penal Code Section 29825 and can result in felony charges.

Child Custody and Visitation Impact
If you share children with the person seeking a restraining order, the consequences can be heartbreaking. A domestic violence restraining order (DVRO) can include temporary emergency orders for child custody that:

• Give sole custody to the other parent
• Eliminate or severely restrict your parenting time
• Require supervised visitation at your expense
• Prevent you from picking up or dropping off children at school
• Affect permanent custody determinations in family court

Family law judges in Los Angeles Superior Court, Orange County Superior Court, and throughout Southern California take restraining orders very seriously when making custody decisions.

Immigration Consequences
For non-U.S. citizens living in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, or anywhere in Southern California, a restraining order can trigger immigration consequences including:

• Denial of green card applications
• Denial of citizenship applications
• Visa revocation
• Deportation proceedings
• Finding of “bad moral character” by USCIS

Immigration judges view restraining orders—particularly domestic violence restraining orders—as evidence of violence or abuse, which can make someone inadmissible or deportable under federal immigration law.

Housing and Living Situation
A domestic violence restraining order can order you to move out of your shared home—sometimes with only hours’ notice. In Southern California’s expensive housing market, particularly in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego, finding new housing on short notice can be financially devastating and sometimes impossible. Even if you don’t share a home with the petitioner, having a restraining order on your record can make it difficult to rent apartments or houses, as many landlords conduct background checks.

Professional License Implications
Attorneys, doctors, nurses, therapists, teachers, real estate agents, contractors, accountants, and many other professionals must report restraining orders to their licensing boards. A restraining order can trigger:

• License suspension or revocation
• Professional discipline proceedings
• Mandatory disclosure to clients or employers
• Inability to renew professional licenses

2. The Legal Process is Complex and Unforgiving

California’s restraining order process involves complex legal procedures, strict deadlines, and formal rules of evidence. A single procedural mistake can cost you the case. Consider:

Strict Deadlines
You typically have only 15-25 days from service of a temporary restraining order to your permanent hearing. During this time, you must:

• File your written response (optional but recommended)
• Gather all evidence
• Identify and prepare witnesses
• Develop your legal defense strategy
• Prepare for cross-examination

Missing a deadline or failing to properly prepare can result in a multi-year restraining order being granted by default.

Formal Rules of Evidence
Restraining order hearings follow the California Evidence Code. You need to know how to:

• Properly admit documents into evidence
• Lay foundation for exhibits
• Examine and cross-examine witnesses
• Make and respond to objections
• Present legal arguments

Judges in Los Angeles Superior Court, Orange County Superior Court, San Diego Superior Court, and throughout Southern California expect proper legal procedure and will not help self-represented parties navigate these complex rules.

Burden of Proof and Legal Standards
Different types of restraining orders have different legal requirements. For example:

• Domestic violence restraining orders require proof of abuse or threats by a preponderance of the evidence
• Civil harassment restraining orders require proof of harassment and a credible threat
• Gun violence restraining orders require proof of significant danger
• Workplace violence restraining orders require proof of unlawful violence or credible threats

Understanding these legal standards and how to challenge the petitioner’s evidence is critical to winning your case.

3. You’re Fighting an Uphill Battle

The harsh reality is that judges err on the side of caution when it comes to restraining orders. Judges don’t want to deny a restraining order only to read in the newspaper that someone was injured or killed. This means:

• Temporary restraining orders are granted in the majority of cases (often 70-80%)
• If the petitioner has any evidence at all, judges tend to issue the TRO
• The burden is on you to prove the restraining order should not be made permanent
• You need compelling evidence and effective advocacy to overcome judicial caution

An experienced restraining order defense attorney knows how to navigate this challenging landscape and present your case in the most persuasive way possible.

4. Emotions Can Sabotage Your Case

Restraining order cases are intensely personal and emotional. You may feel:

• Angry at the false accusations
• Hurt by the betrayal
• Confused by the legal process
• Frightened about the consequences
• Desperate to tell your side of the story

These emotions are natural and understandable—but they can destroy your case if you let them control your courtroom behavior. Judges do not respond well to:

• Emotional outbursts
• Arguing with the petitioner
• Interrupting or talking over people
• Showing anger or hostility
• Rambling or unfocused testimony

An experienced restraining order attorney provides an emotional buffer and ensures you present your case professionally, persuasively, and effectively.

The bottom line: You need an experienced restraining order defense attorney to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future. Call Power Trial Lawyers at 888-808-2179 for a free consultation.

Types of Restraining Orders in California: We Defend Against Them All

Power Trial Lawyers has extensive experience defending clients against all types of restraining orders in Southern California. Here’s what you need to know about each type:

Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVRO)

What is a DVRO?
A domestic violence restraining order is the most common and most serious type of protective order in California. DVROs can be filed by current or former intimate partners, spouses, people you’re dating or used to date, people you live with or used to live with, close family members, or anyone with whom you share a child.

Who Can File a DVRO?
California Family Code Section 6211 defines the relationships that qualify for a DVRO:

• Spouses or former spouses
• Domestic partners or former domestic partners
• People in a dating or engagement relationship
• People who used to date
• Cohabitants or former cohabitants
• Parents who share a child together
• Certain family members (children, parents, siblings, grandparents, in-laws)

What Can a DVRO Order?
A domestic violence restraining order can have severe and far-reaching restrictions:

• Stay away from the protected person (typically 100 yards)
• Move out of your shared home immediately
• Stop all contact (calls, texts, emails, social media, third-party contact)
• Stay away from the protected person’s workplace, children’s schools, and other locations
• Surrender all firearms, ammunition, and magazines within 24 hours
• Pay spousal or child support
• Pay the petitioner’s attorney fees
• Attend a 52-week batterer’s intervention program
• Follow temporary child custody and visitation orders (including supervised visitation)
• Not make changes to insurance policies, bank accounts, or other property

Duration:
Temporary DVROs last 15-25 days until the hearing. Permanent DVROs typically last 3-5 years but can be renewed indefinitely.

Common False Allegations in DVRO Cases:
Unfortunately, false allegations are extremely common in DVRO cases, particularly in the context of:

• Divorce and child custody battles
• Relationship breakups where one party wants revenge
• Immigration benefits (obtaining a U-visa)
• Financial leverage
• Gaining advantage in property division

Common false allegations include:

• Claims of physical violence that never occurred
• Exaggerated or distorted accounts of arguments
• Allegations of threats taken out of context
• Claims of “emotional abuse” or “coercive control” based on normal relationship dynamics
• Accusations designed to get you out of the shared home

We Know How to Fight DVROs:
Power Trial Lawyers has successfully defended hundreds of clients against domestic violence restraining orders in Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Diego County, and throughout Southern California. We know how to:

• Expose false allegations through cross-examination
• Present compelling counter-evidence (texts, emails, witnesses, alibis)
• Challenge the credibility of the petitioner
• Demonstrate the lack of evidence supporting the allegations
• Protect your child custody rights
• Prevent move-out orders when possible
• Negotiate favorable settlements when appropriate

Civil Harassment Restraining Orders

What is a Civil Harassment Restraining Order?
Civil harassment restraining orders apply when the person seeking protection does not have a close relationship with you. These orders are governed by California Code of Civil Procedure Section 527.6 and are commonly used in:

• Neighbor disputes (noise complaints, property line disagreements, HOA conflicts)
• Roommate conflicts
• Workplace harassment situations (non-employer petitions)
• Stalking allegations
• Disputes with strangers or acquaintances

Legal Requirements:
To obtain a civil harassment restraining order, the petitioner must prove:

1. A pattern of harassment (a course of conduct directed at a specific person)
2. That causes substantial emotional distress
3. That serves no legitimate purpose

Additionally, for many civil harassment orders, the petitioner must prove a “credible threat” of violence.

Key Differences from DVROs:
Unlike domestic violence restraining orders, civil harassment restraining orders:

• Cannot order you to move out of your home
• Do not deal with child custody or visitation issues
• Do not include spousal support provisions
• Have slightly different legal standards

However, they still appear on background checks and can restrict where you go and who you contact.

Common Civil Harassment Scenarios:

• Neighbor Disputes: Arguments over noise, parking, property boundaries, trees, fences, pets, or HOA rules that escalate into restraining order petitions
• Roommate Conflicts: Disagreements over rent, cleanliness, visitors, or lease terms
• Workplace Situations: Conflicts between coworkers, allegations of harassment or stalking
• Stalking Claims: Allegations that you’re following, watching, or contacting someone inappropriately
• Social Media Disputes: Claims that your online communications constitute harassment

Defense Strategies:
Our attorneys successfully defend civil harassment restraining order cases by:

• Demonstrating that encounters were coincidental, not stalking
• Showing that communications served a legitimate purpose
• Proving there was no credible threat of violence
• Establishing that the petitioner’s emotional distress is not substantial or reasonable
• Presenting evidence that the petitioner is the aggressor
• Using Anti-SLAPP motions when appropriate (strategic lawsuits against public participation)

Gun Violence Restraining Orders (GVRO)

What is a GVRO?
Gun violence restraining orders (sometimes called “red flag laws”) are a relatively new type of protective order in California designed to temporarily remove firearms from individuals who pose a danger to themselves or others. GVROs are authorized under California Penal Code Sections 18100-18205.

Who Can File a GVRO?
Unlike other restraining orders that can be filed by the general public, GVROs can only be petitioned by:

• Law enforcement officers
• Immediate family members (spouse, domestic partner, parent, child, sibling, grandparent)
• Employers, coworkers, or employees (with whom you’ve had substantial contact)
• Teachers or school administrators

What Does a GVRO Prohibit?
A gun violence restraining order focuses exclusively on firearm restrictions. It orders you to:

• Not purchase, own, or possess firearms, ammunition, or magazines
• Surrender all firearms and ammunition to law enforcement or a licensed dealer
• Not attempt to purchase firearms

Types of GVROs:

1. Emergency GVRO – Issued by law enforcement, lasts up to 21 days
2. Temporary GVRO – Issued ex parte by a judge, lasts 21 days until hearing
3. GVRO After Hearing – Can last 1-5 years, issued after full court hearing

Constitutional Concerns:
Gun violence restraining orders raise serious Second Amendment and due process concerns:

• Emergency and temporary GVROs are issued without your presence in court
• The standard of proof is “substantial likelihood” rather than “beyond reasonable doubt”
• Your fundamental constitutional right to bear arms is restricted based on predictions of future behavior
• The process can be initiated by employers or coworkers who may have ulterior motives

Defense Strategies:
Power Trial Lawyers defends GVRO cases by:

• Challenging the sufficiency of evidence
• Obtaining independent psychological evaluations when appropriate
• Demonstrating responsible gun ownership
• Presenting evidence of no danger to self or others
• Exposing improper motives (workplace retaliation, family conflicts, etc.)
• Raising constitutional challenges when applicable
• Negotiating early termination or modification

Restoring Gun Rights:
We also help clients restore their gun rights after a GVRO by filing petitions to terminate the order early or opposing renewal requests.

Workplace Violence Restraining Orders

What is a Workplace Violence Restraining Order?
Workplace violence restraining orders are governed by California Code of Civil Procedure Section 527.8 and allow employers to seek protective orders on behalf of employees who have suffered violence, threats, stalking, or harassment at work.

Who Can File:
Only employers can petition for workplace violence restraining orders—employees cannot file these orders themselves.

Recent Expansion (SB 428):
Effective January 1, 2025, Senate Bill 428 expanded workplace violence restraining orders to include “harassment” causing substantial emotional distress, even without violence or explicit threats. This significant expansion makes these orders much easier to obtain.

What Can Be Ordered:
A workplace violence restraining order can:

• Prohibit you from going to your workplace
• Order you to stay away from specific employees
• Prohibit all contact with employees
• Last up to 3 years after a hearing

Employment Consequences:
Being subject to a workplace violence restraining order often results in:

• Immediate job termination
• Inability to work in your field or industry
• Damage to professional reputation
• Difficulty finding new employment

Defense Considerations:
Power Trial Lawyers defends workplace violence restraining order cases by:

• Demonstrating the allegations are exaggerated or false
• Showing the employer has ulterior motives (avoiding workers’ compensation, retaliation for whistleblowing, union activity, etc.)
• Proving your conduct was protected activity (labor organizing, reporting illegal activity, etc.)
• Establishing that no unlawful violence or credible threat occurred
• Protecting your First Amendment rights

Elder or Dependent Adult Abuse Restraining Orders

What is an Elder Abuse Restraining Order?
Elder abuse restraining orders protect individuals aged 65 or older, or dependent adults aged 18-64 with certain physical or mental limitations, from abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, or abandonment.

Types of Elder Abuse:

• Physical abuse (hitting, pushing, inappropriate restraint)
• Financial abuse (theft, fraud, undue influence)
• Neglect (failure to provide food, shelter, medical care)
• Isolation (preventing contact with family or friends)
• Emotional or psychological abuse

Who is Targeted:
Elder abuse restraining orders are most commonly filed against:

• Family members (adult children, siblings, caretakers)
• Professional caregivers
• Nursing home or assisted living facility staff
• Anyone with access to the elder or dependent adult

Unique Challenges:
Elder abuse cases often involve:

• Complex family dynamics and inheritance disputes
• Allegations of financial abuse related to legitimate gifts or estate planning
• Caregiver stress and misunderstandings
• Conflicting medical opinions about proper care
• Professional license implications for healthcare workers

Defense Strategies:
We defend elder abuse restraining order cases by:

• Demonstrating proper care was provided
• Showing financial transactions were legitimate (gifts, authorized assistance, power of attorney)
• Presenting medical evidence of appropriate care
• Exposing family conflicts and improper motives
• Protecting professional caregivers’ licenses and reputations

Professional License Protection:
For professional caregivers, we work to minimize the impact on nursing licenses, home health aide certifications, and other professional credentials.

School Violence Restraining Orders

What is a School Violence Restraining Order?
Private postsecondary schools (colleges and universities) can petition for restraining orders against students who have engaged in stalking or made threats of violence.

Consequences:

• Expulsion from school
• Inability to complete your degree
• Loss of financial aid
• Damage to academic record
• Impact on future educational opportunities

Common Situations:

• Student conduct violations
• Allegations of stalking or harassment
• Threats made on social media
• Campus safety concerns

The Restraining Order Process in Southern California: What to Expect

Understanding the restraining order process is critical to fighting effectively. Here’s how restraining orders work in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, and throughout Southern California:

Stage 1: The Petition is Filed

The petitioner (person seeking protection) files a Request for Restraining Order with the court, along with supporting documents describing the allegations. In Los Angeles County alone, thousands of restraining order petitions are filed each month at courthouses including:

• Downtown Los Angeles Courthouse (Stanley Mosk Courthouse)
• Van Nuys Courthouse
• Pasadena Courthouse
• Long Beach Courthouse
• Torrance Courthouse
• Airport Courthouse
• Santa Monica Courthouse
• And many others

In Orange County, petitions are filed at:

• Central Justice Center (Santa Ana)
• Lamoreaux Justice Center (Orange)
• Harbor Justice Center (Newport Beach)
• North Justice Center (Fullerton)
• West Justice Center (Westminster)

Stage 2: Temporary Restraining Order (TRO)

A judge reviews the petition, typically within 24 hours. This review happens ex parte—meaning without you present or even knowing about it. If the judge believes there is sufficient evidence of immediate danger, they will issue a temporary restraining order (TRO).

Critical Point: You have no opportunity to defend yourself at this stage. The judge hears only the petitioner’s side of the story. This is why so many temporary restraining orders are granted, even when based on false or exaggerated allegations.

The temporary restraining order typically lasts 15-25 days until the hearing for a permanent restraining order.

Stage 3: Service of Process

You must be personally served with copies of:

• The petition (Request for Restraining Order)
• The temporary restraining order (if granted)
• Notice of the hearing date, time, and location
• Blank response forms

Important: You are not bound by the restraining order until you have been properly served. However, once served, you MUST follow all terms exactly or face criminal charges.

Stage 4: Your Response (Optional But Recommended)

You have the option to file a written response before the hearing. While not required, filing a response is almost always beneficial because it:

• Shows the judge you’re taking the matter seriously
• Allows you to deny false allegations in writing
• Permits you to tell your side of the story
• May help you win if the petitioner doesn’t appear

Your attorney will help you craft a response that protects your rights without creating problems for any related criminal cases.

Stage 5: Gathering Evidence and Preparing for Hearing

This is where having an experienced restraining order attorney makes all the difference. During the days between service and your hearing, your attorney will:

• Gather all evidence supporting your defense
• Identify and prepare witnesses
• Develop your legal defense strategy
• Prepare you for testimony and cross-examination
• File any necessary motions

Stage 6: The Restraining Order Hearing

The hearing is your opportunity to fight the restraining order. Here’s what happens:

Typical Hearing Process:

1. Petitioner’s Case: The person seeking the restraining order presents their evidence first, including testimony, documents, and witnesses
2. Cross-Examination: Your attorney cross-examines the petitioner and their witnesses to expose lies, inconsistencies, and lack of credibility
3. Respondent’s Case: You present your defense, including your testimony, evidence, and witnesses
4. Cross-Examination of Respondent: The petitioner can cross-examine you and your witnesses
5. Closing Arguments: Both sides summarize their case
6. Judge’s Decision: The judge will either:
   • Grant a permanent restraining order (typically 3-5 years)
   • Deny the restraining order entirely
   • Modify the terms of the order

The judge usually rules immediately or takes the matter under submission and issues a written decision within a few days.

Hearing Length:
Restraining order hearings in Southern California typically last 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on complexity, number of witnesses, and amount of evidence.

Stage 7: After the Hearing

If You Win (Order Denied):

• Get a certified copy of the order denying the restraining order
• Ensure it’s removed from the CLETS database
• Keep the order for your records

If You Lose (Permanent Order Granted):

• Comply with every term exactly
• Get a certified copy so you know the precise requirements
• Consider filing an appeal (60-day deadline)
• Discuss modification options with your attorney
• After 3 months, you can request modification or termination if circumstances change

Important: Even if you believe the restraining order is unjust, you MUST follow it exactly. Violating a restraining order is a crime under California Penal Code Section 273.6.

Why Choose Power Trial Lawyers for Your Restraining Order Defense

When your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line, you need attorneys with proven expertise in restraining order defense. Here’s why clients throughout Southern California choose Power Trial Lawyers:

Extensive Restraining Order Defense Experience

Our attorneys have defended clients against restraining orders in:

• Los Angeles County – Downtown LA, Van Nuys, Pasadena, Long Beach, Torrance, Airport, Santa Monica, Pomona, Compton, and all other LA County courthouses
• Orange County – Central Justice Center (Santa Ana), Lamoreaux (Orange), Harbor (Newport Beach), North (Fullerton), West (Westminster)
• San Diego County – Downtown San Diego, North County Regional Center, South Bay, East County
• Riverside County – Riverside, Indio, Corona, Murrieta
• San Bernardino County – San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga, Victorville
• Ventura County – Ventura, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks

We’ve successfully defended clients against all types of restraining orders:

• Domestic violence restraining orders (DVRO)
• Civil harassment restraining orders
• Gun violence restraining orders (GVRO)
• Workplace violence restraining orders
• Elder abuse restraining orders
• School violence restraining orders

Trial-Tested Advocacy

As our name suggests, Power Trial Lawyers are trial attorneys. We’re not afraid to take your case to a contested hearing and fight for you in court. Our attorneys have appeared in hundreds of restraining order hearings throughout Southern California and know how to:

• Present compelling evidence
• Cross-examine petitioners effectively
• Expose false allegations
• Advocate persuasively before judges
• Win cases that other attorneys said were unwinnable

Media Recognition and Credibility

Power Trial Lawyers has been featured in major media outlets including:

• Fox News
• CNN
• Forbes
• Los Angeles Times

This media presence demonstrates our expertise and adds credibility to your case. Judges and opposing counsel know our reputation for excellence.

Comprehensive Criminal Defense Background

Many restraining order cases involve related criminal charges or the potential for criminal prosecution. Our attorneys are experienced criminal defense lawyers who understand how restraining orders intersect with criminal law, including:

• Domestic violence charges (Penal Code 273.5)
• Criminal threats (Penal Code 422)
• Stalking (Penal Code 646.9)
• Restraining order violations (Penal Code 273.6)
• Assault and battery charges

This comprehensive understanding allows us to protect you on all fronts.

Knowledge of Local Courts and Judges

We have extensive experience in courthouses throughout Southern California and understand:

• Local court procedures and customs
• Individual judges’ preferences and tendencies
• What arguments resonate with specific judges
• How to navigate each courthouse efficiently

This local knowledge gives you a significant advantage.

Personalized Attention and Aggressive Representation

We understand that restraining orders are deeply personal legal matters that can affect every aspect of your life. We provide:

• Direct attorney access (not just paralegals)
• 24/7 availability for urgent matters
• Personalized defense strategies tailored to your specific case
• Aggressive advocacy to protect your rights
• Compassionate support during a difficult time

Proven Results

We have successfully defended clients in restraining order cases involving:

• Complete dismissal of restraining orders based on false allegations
• Negotiated settlements with reduced restrictions
• Protection of child custody rights
• Prevention of move-out orders
• Dismissal of restraining order violation charges
• Restoration of gun rights after GVROs
• Protection of professional licenses
• Immigration relief

Free Consultation

We offer free, confidential consultations to discuss your restraining order case. During your consultation, we’ll:

• Review the allegations against you
• Explain your legal options
• Develop a preliminary defense strategy
• Answer all your questions
• Provide an honest assessment of your case
• Discuss fees and payment options

Don’t wait. Every day matters in a restraining order case. Call Power Trial Lawyers at 888-808-2179 for your free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Restraining Orders in California

How much does a restraining order attorney cost in California?

The cost of hiring a restraining order attorney in Southern California varies based on case complexity, but typical costs are:

• Free consultation – Most restraining order attorneys, including Power Trial Lawyers, offer free initial consultations
• Flat fee representation – $3,500 to $10,000 for complete representation through the hearing
• Hourly representation – $300 to $600 per hour for experienced attorneys

While these costs may seem significant, consider the cost of NOT fighting: lost employment opportunities, child custody loss, professional license issues, immigration consequences, and a permanent record affecting you for years.

Power Trial Lawyers offers flexible payment arrangements to make quality legal representation accessible.

Can I represent myself in a restraining order hearing?

While you technically have the right to represent yourself, it’s almost always a serious mistake. Restraining order hearings involve complex rules of evidence, strict procedures, and high stakes. Judges expect proper legal protocol and won’t help you navigate the process. One mistake can result in a multi-year restraining order that devastates your life.

An experienced restraining order defense attorney dramatically increases your chances of success.

How long do restraining orders last in California?

The duration depends on the type of restraining order:

• Emergency Protective Orders (EPO) – 5-7 days
• Temporary Restraining Orders (TRO) – 15-25 days until the hearing
• Permanent Restraining Orders – Typically 3-5 years, but can be renewed
• Gun Violence Restraining Orders – 1-5 years depending on circumstances

Despite being called “permanent,” restraining orders issued after a hearing are actually limited in duration but can be renewed before expiration.

Will a restraining order show up on a background check?

Yes. Restraining orders appear on:

• Criminal background checks for employment
• Housing applications and landlord screenings
• Professional license applications
• Immigration proceedings
• Child custody evaluations
• Firearm purchase background checks

Restraining orders are entered into the CLETS database (California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System), making them visible to law enforcement and accessible through background check services.

What happens if I violate a restraining order?

Violating a restraining order in California is a crime under Penal Code Section 273.6:

First Offense (Misdemeanor):

• Up to 1 year in county jail
• Fines up to $1,000
• Mandatory probation

Violations with Injury or Multiple Violations (Felony):

• Up to 3 years in state prison
• Fines up to $10,000
• Permanent felony criminal record

Additionally, violating a restraining order destroys your ability to fight the order and can result in the order being extended.

Can I contact the person who filed the restraining order to resolve things?

Absolutely not. If a temporary restraining order has been issued, contacting the petitioner in any way—even to try to resolve things peacefully—is a crime under Penal Code 273.6. You will be arrested, and your chances of winning your case will be destroyed. All communication must go through attorneys.

What if we both want to drop the restraining order?

Even if the petitioner changes their mind and wants to drop the restraining order, only the judge can dismiss it. The petitioner can request dismissal, but judges in domestic violence cases often refuse, especially if there’s any evidence of abuse. You still need to appear at the hearing.

Can I get the restraining order removed from my record?

Restraining orders are not criminal convictions, so they cannot be “expunged” in the traditional sense. However:

• If you successfully fight the restraining order and the judge denies it, there will be no permanent order on your record
• Once a restraining order expires, it may be removed from certain databases
• You can petition to have it removed from CLETS after expiration

This is why fighting the restraining order initially is so important.

What evidence do I need to fight a restraining order?

Strong evidence to defend against a restraining order includes:

• Text messages, emails, and social media communications showing friendly contact or petitioner’s aggressive behavior
• Witness testimony from people who saw alleged incidents or can speak to your character
• Photos or videos contradicting the petitioner’s claims
• Phone records or GPS data establishing alibis
• Medical records (or lack thereof) contradicting injury claims
• Police reports showing inconsistencies
• Financial records showing petitioner’s improper motives

Your attorney will help you gather and present this evidence effectively.

How quickly do I need to hire an attorney?

Immediately. You typically have only 15-25 days from service of the temporary restraining order to your permanent hearing. During this time, you must gather evidence, prepare witnesses, and develop your defense strategy. The sooner you hire an attorney, the more time they have to build a strong defense.

Call Power Trial Lawyers at 888-808-2179 right now for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7.

Take Action Now: Protect Your Rights, Reputation, and Future

A restraining order can change your life in devastating ways. But you don’t have to face this alone. With an experienced restraining order defense attorney on your side, you can fight back and protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.

Power Trial Lawyers has the experience, skill, and dedication to defend you against any type of restraining order in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, and throughout Southern California.

Why Wait? Call Now: 888-808-2179

✅ Free, Confidential Consultation
✅ Experienced Restraining Order Defense Attorneys
✅ Offices in Los Angeles and Orange County
✅ Serving All of Southern California
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✅ Flexible Payment Plans Available
✅ Featured on Fox News, CNN, Forbes & LA Times

We know how to fight restraining orders in California, and we know how to win.

Every day matters when you’re facing a restraining order. Evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and deadlines approach. Don’t wait another minute.

📞 Call Power Trial Lawyers at 888-808-2179

Your future is worth fighting for.

About Power Trial Lawyers

Power Trial Lawyers is a premier criminal defense and restraining order defense law firm serving Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura Counties. Our attorneys specialize in:

• Restraining Order Defense – DVRO, civil harassment, GVRO, workplace violence, elder abuse
• Criminal Defense – Domestic violence, assault, criminal threats, stalking
• Criminal Appeals – Appellate advocacy
• Restraining Order Violations – Penal Code 273.6 defense

We have been featured on Fox News, CNN, Forbes, and the Los Angeles Times for our expertise in criminal defense and restraining order matters.

Contact Information:
Phone: 888-808-2179
Website: www.powertriallawyers.com
Offices in Los Angeles and Orange County

Service Areas

Power Trial Lawyers serves clients throughout Southern California, including:

Los Angeles County: Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Long Beach, Glendale, Pasadena, Torrance, Burbank, Compton, Inglewood, Downey, Norwalk, West Covina, Pomona, Whittier, Alhambra, El Monte, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Culver City, Hawthorne, Van Nuys, Santa Clarita, Lancaster, Palmdale

Orange County: Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Orange, Tustin, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Laguna Beach, Yorba Linda, Laguna Niguel, Westminster, Fountain Valley, Buena Park

San Diego County: San Diego, La Jolla, Chula Vista, Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Escondido, Vista

Riverside County: Riverside, Corona, Murrieta, Temecula, Palm Springs, Indio

San Bernardino County: San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Fontana, Victorville, Hesperia

Ventura County: Ventura, Oxnard, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. Consult with a qualified restraining order defense attorney about your specific situation. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.