Rule 3.1152 Requests for protective orders to prevent civil harassment, workplace violence, private postsecondary school violence, and elder or dependent adult abuse

When someone wants a court order to protect themselves from harassment, workplace violence, school violence, or elder abuse, they must follow specific steps to request that protection. The person asking for protection files paperwork with the court, and a judge can grant a temporary order right away without the other person present if there is a good reason. This is called an ex parte order.

After the temporary order is granted, the court sets a hearing date so both sides can appear and tell their story. The person who filed the request must then have the other person legally served with copies of all the paperwork and the hearing date. This gives the other person a chance to respond before the judge makes a longer-term decision.

At the hearing, the judge listens to both sides and decides whether to grant a longer protective order, which can last up to five years. Either person can bring evidence and witnesses to support their side. The judge makes the final call based on what is presented.