Restraining Orders

On the complaint, you will be the “plaintiff” and the abuser will be the “defendant.”

On the complaint, in the box provided for explaining why you want the order, write about the most recent incidents of violence, using specific language (slapping, hitting, grabbing, threatening, etc.) that fits your situation. Include details and dates, if possible. Clerks and magistrates can show you which blanks to fill in, but they cannot help you decide what to write.

If you are staying at a shelter, give a Post Office Box, not the street address. If you do not have a safe address, do not fill it out - ask the clerk first how you can keep your address confidential.

Note: Do not sign the forms until you are in front of a notary or a clerk. The clerk can usually notarize the forms for you. Be sure to bring photo ID for the notary.