Restraining Orders

While federal law does not require that you register your protection order in order to get it enforced, if your order is not entered into the state registry, it may be more difficult for a Kentucky law enforcement official to determine whether your order is real.  Once you have authenticated your order by filing it in court, the court will direct law enforcement to help you in having the order followed and order that it be enforced in any county.¹

If you are unsure about whether registering your order is the right decision for you, you may want to contact a local domestic violence organization in your area. An advocate there can help you decide what the safest plan of action is for you in Kentucky. To see a list of local domestic violence organizations in Kentucky, go to our KY Advocates and Shelters page. 

¹ ​KRS § 403.7529(2)