Determine the type of order you need: protective order, temporary ex parte order, or emergency protective order
Go to the district attorney’s office, family violence unit, or a local legal aid office for help
Gather evidence such as police reports, photos, texts, emails, voicemails, witness names, and medical records
Complete the required petition or application for a protective order
File the petition in the county where you live, where the other person lives, or where the abuse occurred
Ask the court for a temporary ex parte order if you need immediate protection
Attend the court hearing on the date set by the judge
Bring all evidence and witnesses to the hearing
Ask the judge to issue the protective order
Have the order formally served on the other person
Keep copies of the signed order with you, at home, and with your workplace or school if needed
Call 911 if the other person violates the order
Renew or extend the order before it expires if continued protection is needed