Restraining Orders: What Are They? When, Why and how to get one

Written by Jeff Lancaster
May 8, 2026

California Restraining Orders and Service

California has different types of restraining orders. The correct forms depend on the relationship between the people involved and the protection requested. Domestic violence forms are not the correct forms for every harassment or stalking case.

Start with the California Courts restraining-order guide. An attorney or court self-help center can help you identify the appropriate procedure and forms.

Domestic violence form downloads

The following are official domestic violence forms. They are not a complete packet for every case:

For civil harassment, use the court’s civil harassment forms and instructions.

Service and hearings

Follow the judge’s orders and the instructions for the type of case you filed. Do not assume a request will be granted, that a temporary order lasts a fixed number of weeks, or that every order is permanent. The hearing date, service deadline and any temporary protections are stated in the court papers.

Do not serve your own restraining-order papers. Ask the court about available service options and follow the applicable service instructions. Do not contact the other person based on a generic article; obtain guidance from the court or an attorney about any notice requirements.

JPL Process Service, LLC can serve supplied court papers and document the service attempt. We do not select the type of restraining order, prepare your case or provide legal advice. Call (866) 754-0520 or email info@jplps.com for process-service assistance.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Picture of Jeff Lancaster

Jeff Lancaster

JPL Process Service, LLC is a trusted process service partner to 100's of law firms throughout Southern California. Call us at (866) 754-0520 to see why or click to order online here.

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