Do I need an attorney to represent me in my restraining order case?

In general, crime victims do not need legal representation at restraining order hearings (Restraining Orders, Orders of Protection, Permanent Restraining Orders) because they are designed for unrepresented persons. However, both parties have a legal right to an attorney. Keep in mind that victim advocates who may assist in filling out forms cannot offer legal advice. We strongly recommend you consult with an attorney if you file for a protective order.

This website is funded through under Grant No. 2020-V3-GX-K016, awarded by the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this website are those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice.

This website was made possible by a subgrant from the National Crime Victim Law Institute (NCVLI) pursuant to Grant No. 2017-VF-GX-K130, awarded to NCVLI by the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of NCVLI.

This Web site is funded through a grant from the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. Neither the U.S. Department of Justice nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse, this Web site (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided).

This Web site was made possible by a subgrant from the National Crime Victim Law Institute (NCVLI) pursuant to Grant No. 2017-VF-GX-K130, awarded to NCVLI by the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of NCVLI.