Get a Restraining Order in Sacramento Quickly and Easily

If you're looking to secure a , you're likely already stressed out from dealing with abuse, stalking, or predatory behavior. You know what you need to do, but understanding how to get a restraining order isn't exactly common knowledge.

Do you need to show up in person? Is there a number to call? Can you apply for a restraining order online? It all feels overwhelming, and it can be hard to know where to start.

Fortunately, DoNotPay is here to help you learn not only how restraining orders work but also how you can get one in Sacramento quickly and easily.

What Is a Restraining Order and How Can I Obtain One?

Before starting the process, it might be helpful to get some background on restraining orders.

What Is a Restraining Order Exactly?

Also known as "protection orders," restraining orders are legal interventions intended to keep you safe. While they can't keep you wholly out of danger, they offer victims increased options. Often the result of domestic violence and/or stalking situations, restraining orders give victims legal recourse to protect themselves.

There are different types of restraining orders available in Sacramento, including:

Emergency Protective Order (EPO)
Domestic Violence Temporary Restraining Order (TPO)
Criminal Protective Order ("No Contact" order)

Restraining orders are meant to prohibit annoying, harassing, or stalking behaviors. They bar offenders from coming within 100 feet of the victim, their homes, workplaces, or schools.

How Can I Obtain a Restraining Order in Sacramento?

Filing a restraining order in Sacramento begins with knowing which type of order you need. Different types of protective orders are filed through different offices.

Type of Restraining Order	Where to File
Domestic Violence	William R. Ridgeway Family Relations Courthouse
Elder or Dependent Adult Abuse	William R. Ridgeway Family Relations Courthouse
Civil Harassment	Gordon D. Schaber Sacramento County Courthouse
Workplace Violence
Private Postsecondary School Violence
Gun Violence

In most cases, requesting a restraining order involves filling out paperwork and either submitting it in person (via a window or a dropbox in the lobby during times of public health crisis) or via email.

Applications received Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 am and 2 pm, may result in a same-day order, if all paperwork is successfully completed. Those filed after 2 pm will likely be completed and ready the following business day (Superior Court of California). In most cases, time is of the essence when it comes to restraining orders–the faster you can receive one, the better.

What Qualifies for a Restraining Order in Sacramento?

In most cases, for you to qualify for a restraining order, the offender must have committed at least two acts of stalking, threats, or harassment against you. Having proof via police reports is helpful, though it is not necessary in every instance.

Much of what happens next will depend on the age(s) of the victim(s) and perpetrator(s), the specifics of the type of abuse, and the nature of the complaint. This is one of the reasons why a hearing is always set to determine if your situation warrants a restraining order.

Obtain a Restraining Order in Sacramento With the Help of DoNotPay

Learning the ins and outs of isn't something anyone takes up as a hobby. If you're trying to learn more, it's likely because you or someone you love is in danger. If so, time is of the essence.

While you always have the option of retaining legal counsel or wading into these waters on your own, you do have a third option. DoNotPay can help you track down the exact forms and documents you need, and the relevant rules in Sacramento, and help you file quickly and easily.

How to apply for a restraining order with the help of DoNotPay:

Search for relationship protection on DoNotPay.
Answer a few easy questions on our File a Restraining Order product.
Submit the form and you're done!

And that's it! DoNotPay will compile for you the forms you need to fill out and give you detailed instructions on how to file for a restraining order in your jurisdiction. In the meantime, please stay safe!

DoNotPay Has Your Back

Life can be stressful, even without someone threatening and stalking us. Fortunately, you don't have to handle all life's challenges alone. DoNotPay is here to help, especially when it comes to restraining orders.