Restraining Orders

When you fill out the forms, you will be the “petitioner” and the abuser will be the “respondent.” In the petition, you will see a space for explaining why you want the protective order. When you write about the abuse, use descriptive language to explain what the abuser did to you. Here are just a few examples of descriptive words: slap, hit, grab, choke, threaten, etc. Be as specific as you can. Include details about when and where the abuse happened, the fear or pain you felt, and any injuries you had.

Note: Do not sign the forms until you are in front of the court clerk. Your statements must be made under oath and the forms may have to be notarized. You’ll need a current photo ID for the notary.

It may also be useful to bring as much identifying information as you can about the abuser. Think about things like:

• addresses of his/her home and workplace;
• a description and plate number of his/her car; and
• information about his/her gun ownership.

When you fill out your address, be sure to use a safe mailing address. If you are staying at a shelter, give a post office box, not the street address. Kentucky courts are supposed to keep your address confidential,¹ but if the abuser doesn’t know your address, you may want to ask the clerk if there are any extra steps you need to take to make sure it’s kept confidential. Keep in mind that if you are filing in the county you fled to and the abuser doesn’t know you are living there, the abuser will know what county you moved to.

¹ Ky. Rev. Stat. § 403.745(9)