A domestic violence restraining order can provide you with protection right away. Once you turn in your request, a judge will decide quickly whether to grant temporary protection. The whole process can take a few weeks to months, depending on how complicated your case is. If the judge grants you a long-term restraining order, it can last up to five years.
You will complete and turn in court papers. A judge will decide whether to grant you temporary protection right away.
The other side (person you want protection from) must be served with (given) the court papers filed with the court.
You will tell the judge why you need a restraining order. You can bring witnesses and evidence to support your case. The other side can bring witnesses and evidence, too.