What is a restraining order?

A restraining order, also known as a protective order, is a type of court order issued in Texas that restricts the behavior of someone who has committed acts of domestic violence, family violence, dating violence, and stalking. A restraining order can be used to protect a person or other people who are in immediate danger of further abuse or threats by the offender. The order helps protect the victim from attacks or threats from the offender by legally prohibiting them from having any contact with the victim or from being at certain locations. Restraining orders in Texas are issued by judges in family court, however, depending on the situation, a restraining order may also be ordered by a criminal court judge. Typically, a restraining order includes commands such as “no contact” including phone calls, letters, or any type of communication, or “stay away” orders which require the offender to stay a certain distance away from the victim’s place of residence, school, or job. Restraining orders are civil court orders, so the police will need to be contacted if the offender violates the terms of the order. Overall, a restraining order is an important tool in Texas for protecting victims of abuse and ensuring their safety. It is important to remember that a restraining order does not guarantee protection, so victims should take other safety measures, such as informing family and friends of the order, and following any instructions given by the court.

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