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Domestic Violence Restraining Orders

In Domestic Violence Restraining Orders

My Ex is Harassing Me Online: What Legal Options Do I Have in San Diego Beyond a DVRO

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The end of a relationship should mark the beginning of peace. But for many in San Diego, that peace is short-lived—especially when the harassment shifts to the digital world. Whether it’s threatening texts, reputation-smearing posts, or social media surveillance, online harassment by an ex is one of the fastest-growing forms of post-breakup abuse.

If your situation doesn’t meet the legal requirements for a Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO), you may feel trapped. Fortunately, California law offers other powerful tools to protect yourself—especially through the Civil Harassment Restraining Order (CHRO).

This guide will walk you through how California law handles online abuse, when a DVRO applies, how to get protection with a CHRO, and what steps to take immediately to regain your safety and peace of mind.

When Online Abuse Becomes Legal Harassment

Let’s start with a common example:

Alex and Morgan dated for four months before breaking up. Since the breakup, Alex has flooded Morgan with unwanted texts, tagged them in fake Instagram posts, shared private photos without consent, and created burner accounts to monitor and insult them online.

Morgan now feels unsafe, anxious, and afraid to leave home. But because Alex and Morgan never lived together, were not married, and have no children, a traditional DVRO may not apply.

So, is Morgan out of options? Absolutely not. This is where a Civil Harassment Restraining Order becomes the legal lifeline.

Cyberstalking and Digital Harassment: How California Law Defines It

Under California law, online harassment and cyberstalking are serious offenses that carry both civil and criminal consequences. Even when the abuse isn’t physical, the emotional and reputational harm can be just as severe.

Cyberstalking or Online Harassment May Include:

  • Repeated unwanted messages, emails, or DMs

  • Posting embarrassing or false information (defamation)

  • Impersonation or creating fake accounts

  • “Doxxing”—publicizing someone’s private information

  • Sharing private photos or texts without consent

  • Monitoring someone’s social media activity obsessively

  • Circumventing blocks with new accounts or phone numbers

Under California Penal Code § 646.9, stalking includes any behavior that causes the victim to feel threatened, harassed, or fearful. For civil protective orders, harassment is defined more broadly—repeated unwanted conduct that causes substantial emotional distress and serves no legitimate purpose.

The Limits of DVROs in Online Abuse Cases

A Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) offers robust protection, including:

  • Stay-away orders

  • No-contact directives

  • Firearm restrictions

  • Child custody and support modifications

However, eligibility for a DVRO depends on the relationship between the parties.

To Qualify for a DVRO, the Abuser Must Be:

  • A current or former spouse

  • A current or former cohabitant

  • A co-parent of your child

  • Someone you’ve dated intimately

  • A close family member (parent, sibling, etc.)

If the person harassing you was only a casual dating partner, a friend, coworker, neighbor, or classmate—you may be ineligible for a DVRO.

That’s where a Civil Harassment Restraining Order becomes the best path forward.

Civil Harassment Restraining Orders (CHROs): Powerful Protection in Non-Domestic Cases

A CHRO is a civil court order that protects victims from abuse, threats, stalking, or harassment by individuals outside the domestic violence relationship category.

This includes:

  • Ex-dating partners who never lived with you

  • Roommates

  • Former friends

  • Coworkers

  • Neighbors

  • Acquaintances or strangers

A CHRO Can Order:

  • No contact via phone, email, social media, or in person

  • No online impersonation, threats, or digital tracking

  • Stay-away requirements from your home, workplace, school, or child’s school

  • Prohibition from owning or purchasing firearms

Unlike DVROs, CHROs focus on patterned harassment rather than physical abuse or domestic ties. They are frequently granted in online abuse and cyberstalking cases.

Key Differences Between a DVRO and CHRO in California

 

Feature DVRO CHRO
Relationship Required Spouse, cohabitant, parent, etc. No domestic relationship needed
Applicable Harassment Domestic abuse, threats, violence Stalking, harassment, threats
Court Filing Family Court Civil Court
Protection Scope Includes custody, support orders Stay-away and no-contact orders
Ideal For Co-parents, spouses Exes, friends, coworkers, neighbors
If your ex-partner was never your cohabitant, a CHRO is the correct legal vehicle to stop online harassment.

How to Qualify for a CHRO in San Diego

To obtain a CHRO, you must prove that:

  1. The other party engaged in harassment

    • This includes stalking, threatening, annoying contact, or digital abuse.

  2. The behavior is repeated and willful

    • A one-time contact won’t typically qualify unless it’s extremely threatening.

  3. The behavior caused substantial emotional distress

    • Evidence of anxiety, disruption of your daily life, or documented fear strengthens your case.

  4. There is no legitimate purpose

    • The person is not contacting you for necessary business or legal matters.

Judges in San Diego take CHRO petitions seriously, especially when victims provide organized documentation of the harassment and its impact.

What Evidence You Need to Build a Strong Case

Your CHRO case will rise or fall based on your ability to show a clear, repeated pattern of harassment. Start gathering and organizing evidence immediately.

Recommended Evidence:

  • Screenshots of harassing texts, emails, or DMs

  • Screenshots or links to social media posts or fake accounts

  • Logs or spreadsheets of harassment dates/times

  • Police reports or incident numbers (if applicable)

  • Statements from witnesses, co-workers, or mental health professionals

  • Medical records or therapist notes showing stress or anxiety

At Minella Law Group, we help clients assemble comprehensive evidence packets that make an impact in court.

Immediate Safety and Digital Steps to Protect Yourself

Even before the court intervenes, you can take key steps to regain control and secure your digital presence.

  1. Block and Report
    1. Immediately block your harasser on all platforms. Use built-in reporting tools on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and email services.
  2. Change Passwords and Enable 2FA
    1. Ensure all personal and financial accounts use new passwords and two-factor authentication.
  3. Secure Your Devices
    1. Scan for spyware or keyloggers if you suspect hacking. Update privacy settings on your smartphone, laptop, and smart home devices.
  4. Don’t Engage
    1. Resist the urge to respond. Your silence protects your case and prevents escalation.
  5. Start a Harassment Log
    1. Create a written or digital log with:

      • Date/time of incident

      • What happened

      • How it made you feel or what it interrupted

      • Any supporting evidence

How the Court Process Works for CHROs

Step 1: File for a Temporary CHRO

  • Submit a Request for Civil Harassment Restraining Order (CH-100) and supporting declarations
  • Request a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO)—many are granted the same day

Step 2: Serve the Harasser

  • You must have the other party formally served by someone over 18 (not you)
  • Law enforcement or a registered process server can assist

Step 3: Prepare for the Hearing

  • A court hearing will be scheduled within 21–25 days
  • You’ll present your evidence and testimony
  • The judge may ask questions or allow cross-examination

Step 4: Final Order

  • If granted, the restraining order lasts up to five years
  • The person will be entered into CLETS (California Law Enforcement Telecommunication System)
  • Violations can lead to arrest and criminal penalties

Our team at Minella Law Group represents you throughout this process—filing, presenting evidence, and advocating in court.

When to Call a Lawyer—and Why It Matters

If you’re experiencing online harassment from an ex or anyone not covered by DVRO eligibility, time is critical. Don’t wait until the behavior escalates or your mental health deteriorates.

  • A Restraining Order Attorney Can:
  • Help you choose the right type of protection (DVRO vs. CHRO)
  • Draft powerful declarations and supporting evidence
  • Appear in court and argue for your protection
  • Prevent dismissal based on insufficient or disorganized claims
  • Handle service, evidence collection, and any needed follow-up motions

At Minella Law Group, we understand the unique emotional toll of online harassment—and we take it seriously. You deserve peace, privacy, and legal protection.

Why Minella Law Group Is the Right Firm for Online Harassment Cases

We have decades of experience helping victims of stalking, harassment, and abuse obtain meaningful court protection—especially in complex, non-domestic scenarios.

We’ve helped clients:

  • Shut down fake social media impersonation
  • Protect careers from online reputation attacks
  • Shield children and family from exposure to harassment
  • Navigate law enforcement involvement
  • Secure multi-year CHROs with court enforcement

You don’t have to fight this alone. Our attorneys blend legal skill with compassion and confidentiality—ensuring your safety and dignity are never compromised.

 

••Get the Protection You Deserve Today••

Online harassment isn’t just annoying—it’s dangerous, traumatizing, and often illegal. Whether or not you qualify for a DVRO, California law provides tools to protect you.

At Minella Law Group, we’re ready to:

  • File for a Civil Harassment Restraining Order
  • Build your case with compelling evidence
  • Represent you in court
  • Protect your peace, reputation, and safety

📞 Call Minella Law Group today at 619-289-7948 to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our family law specialists. We’ll listen to your concerns, assess the situation, and create a clear strategy tailored to your goals.

📝 Prefer email? Fill out our online contact form and a member of our legal team will get in touch with you promptly.

In Domestic Violence Restraining Orders

The Impact of Domestic Violence on Child Custody and Child Welfare Services

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Domestic violence is a significant issue that affects many families worldwide, creating an environment of fear and uncertainty. When it comes to the welfare of children, domestic violence can have far-reaching implications, particularly in matters of child custody and investigations by child welfare services.

This blog post aims to shed light on how domestic violence influences these areas, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making during such challenging times.

The Ripple Effect of Domestic Violence on Children

While domestic violence is often viewed through the lens of the direct victims, typically the partner or spouse, the effects on children who witness or experience such environments are profound. Children exposed to domestic violence are at a higher risk of emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues. They may experience anxiety, depression, and even exhibit aggression themselves. These experiences can impact their academic performance and social interactions, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break.

Domestic Violence and Child Custody

When parents decide to separate, child custody becomes a crucial consideration. The court’s primary focus is always the best interest of the child, and domestic violence plays a significant role in these determinations. Judges will evaluate the safety and well-being of the child; hence, any history of domestic violence can influence custody arrangements.

In many jurisdictions, there is a presumption against granting custody to a parent with a history of domestic violence. Courts may order supervised visits or, in severe cases, deny visitation rights entirely to protect the child from potential harm. The overriding concern is to ensure a safe environment where the child can thrive without fear.

The Role of Child Welfare Services

Child welfare services come into play when there are concerns about a child’s safety in their current living situation. Reports of domestic violence often trigger investigations by these agencies. The goal is to assess the risk to the child and determine whether intervention is necessary.

During an investigation, child welfare workers will gather information from various sources, including family members, teachers, and healthcare professionals. They will assess the severity of the domestic violence incidents, the frequency, and the impact on the child. Based on their findings, they may recommend family support services, counseling, or in extreme cases, place the child in foster care temporarily.

Navigating the Legal System

For families entangled in the complexities of domestic violence, child custody, and child welfare investigations, navigating the legal system can be overwhelming. It is crucial to understand the legal processes involved and the rights of both the parents and the children.

Legal Representation: Engaging with experienced legal professionals can provide clarity and direction. Attorneys specializing in family law can advocate for the best interests of the child while ensuring that the rights of the involved parties are protected.

Documenting Evidence: Collecting evidence of domestic violence is critical. This includes police reports, medical records, and any other documentation that can substantiate claims of abuse. This information can be pivotal in custody hearings and welfare investigations.

Counseling and Support Services: Both parents and children can benefit from counseling services that address the psychological trauma associated with domestic violence. These services can facilitate healing and provide strategies to cope with the aftermath.

The Path Forward

Understanding the interplay between domestic violence, child custody, and child welfare services is integral to making informed decisions that prioritize the child’s safety and well-being. While the journey may be fraught with challenges, seeking the right support can make a significant difference.

For those in need of legal assistance, it is vital to connect with professionals who understand the intricacies of family law. Minella Law Group offers experienced legal representation in family law matters, providing compassionate support and strategic advocacy. Their dedicated team works diligently to ensure that families navigate these challenging situations with the utmost care and expertise.

In conclusion, while domestic violence significantly impacts child custody and welfare investigations, understanding the processes and seeking appropriate support can pave the way for a safer, healthier future for children and their families.

 

••Minella Law Group Can Help••

At Minella Law Group, we understand the emotional and logistical complexities involved in domestic violence cases. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal support. Whether you need help understanding the nuances of your case or require representation in court, we are here to assist.

Call our family law office today to schedule a complimentary consult with one of our attorneys.   619.289.7948

In Domestic Violence Restraining Orders

Understanding Civil Harassment Restraining Orders in California

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Navigating the often complex world of legal procedures can be quite daunting. Among the various legal protections available, civil harassment restraining orders stand out as critical tools for safeguarding personal safety and peace of mind.

While not everyone may need to file for such an order, understanding what they are and when they might be necessary can prove invaluable.

What is a Civil Harassment Restraining Order?

A civil harassment restraining order is a legal injunction used to prevent harassment, threats, or violence from someone you do not have a close relationship with, such as a neighbor, roommate, or stranger. Unlike domestic violence restraining orders, civil harassment orders are not typically used for disputes involving family or household members. Instead, they serve as a shield for individuals facing unwanted behavior from non-intimate associates.

Why Might Someone Pursue This Kind of Order?

There are numerous scenarios where a civil harassment restraining order might come into play. Imagine receiving persistent and unwelcome contact from a former acquaintance, or being subject to threats or stalking behaviors from a disgruntled neighbor. In such circumstances, the affected individual can seek legal recourse to protect themselves from further distress.

The legal standard for a civil harassment restraining order in California requires that the petitioner experiences a credible threat of violence, has suffered actual violence, or is subjected to behavior that seriously alarms, annoys, or harasses them without legitimate purpose.

The Process of Obtaining a Civil Harassment Restraining Order

While the thought of filing for a restraining order might seem overwhelming, the process is structured to be accessible. Here’s a brief overview:

  1. Filing the Paperwork: The first step involves completing the necessary court forms. These forms require detailed information about the harassment, including specific incidents and evidence supporting your request.
  2. Temporary Restraining Order (TRO): If the situation is urgent, the court may issue a temporary restraining order. This provides immediate protection and lasts until the court hearing.
  3. Serving the Papers: The respondent must be officially notified of the legal proceedings. This is typically done through a process server or law enforcement.
  4. Attending the Court Hearing: Both the petitioner and the respondent have the opportunity to present their case in front of a judge. Based on the evidence and testimonies, the judge will decide whether to grant a permanent restraining order.
  5. Duration and Renewal: A civil harassment restraining order can last up to five years, after which it can be renewed if necessary.

What Happens if a Restraining Order is Violated?

In California, violating a restraining order is a criminal offense. If the restrained individual disobeys the order—be it by contacting the petitioner or coming too close—law enforcement can take immediate action. This can lead to fines, arrest, or even jail time, depending on the severity of the violation.

Common Misunderstandings

It’s important to clarify some misconceptions about civil harassment restraining orders. Firstly, obtaining a restraining order does not give the petitioner any criminal record; it’s a civil matter aimed at protection. Secondly, while the order can deter unwanted contact, it is not a guarantee of safety. Petitioners should still take additional precautions to protect themselves.

The Importance of Legal Guidance

While you can file for a civil harassment restraining order on your own, navigating the legal intricacies can be challenging. Errors in the paperwork or lack of compelling evidence can result in a denial of your request. This is why having a knowledgeable attorney can make a significant difference. Legal professionals bring expertise and strategic insight, ensuring that your case is presented in the best possible light.

 

••Minella Law Group Can Help••

At Minella Law Group, we understand the emotional and logistical complexities involved in seeking a civil harassment restraining order. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal support. Whether you need help understanding the nuances of your case or require representation in court, we are here to assist.

Call our family law office today to schedule a complimentary consult with one of our attorneys.   619.289.7948

In Domestic Violence Restraining Orders

When Does Domestic Violence Requires a Criminal Lawyer?

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Accusations of domestic violence are a serious charge that can result in criminal penalties. In fact, in California, serious domestic violence incidents are charged as felonies. If you are convicted of felony abuse, you can spend up to four years in prison. The punishment may be even longer if you’ve been convicted of the same offense within the past seven years. In these cases, probation is unlikely, even without a previous record, and it is recommended you hire a criminal attorney.

Felony Convictions

Felony charges are pursued when the victim’s injuries are severe, such as broken bones, injuries that need sutures, or trauma so serious it causes permanent brain or body damage.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon

Among the more serious of domestic violence charges in California is assault with a deadly weapon. In rendering a sentence, the court will look at the type of weapon used, whether the victim was injured, and the seriousness of the injury. If found guilty of a felony, this conviction is considered a “strike” under California’s Three Strikes law. If convicted, you face the following penalties:

  • Two to four years in California state prison.
  • Fines of up to $10,000.
  • Victim restitution costs.
  • Confiscation of your weapon.

Criminal Threats

Another charge that requires the services of a criminal lawyer is violation of California Penal Code 422 PC: threatening to commit a crime which will result in death or great bodily injury to another person. You do not have to intend to commit the acts threatened – just making them is considered a felony. Criminal threats can be made against anyone, but if they’re made against a family member, they are regarded as crimes of domestic violence.

To obtain a criminal threats conviction against you, each of these facts must be proved beyond a reasonable doubt:

  • You willfully threatened to kill or cause great bodily injury to another.
  • You orally, in writing, or by electronic means communicated that threat.
  • You intended the statement to be understood as a threat.
  • The threat communicated a serious intention and the immediate prospect it would be carried out.
  • The threat caused the other person to be in fear for their own safety or the safety of another family member.
  • The person you threatened had a reasonable fear of your threat.

Obviously, since all these facts must be proved, criminal threat convictions are not easy to obtain, but you will require competent representation if you are accused.

••Minella Law Group Can Help••

If you’ve been accused of committing felony domestic violence, you are best served by consulting with a California family law attorney experienced in such charges. In many cases, it is possible to avoid conviction and the serious consequences that come with such a charge. Reach out to us for your complimentary consultation today at 619.289.7948

In Domestic Violence Restraining Orders

FAQ: Can You Go to Jail for Domestic Violence Offenses?

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Can someone go to jail for domestic violence offenses? Absolutely! Penalties for domestic violence may vary depending on the judge who hears the case, but the state of California has guidelines in place for sentencing. A domestic violence conviction carries the possibility of jail time along with a fine. California law also provides for protective orders for victims of domestic violence.

Which Domestic Violence Offenses Will Send a Person to Jail?

The jail time for domestic violence offenses is affected by a number of issues, including:

  • The seriousness of injuries suffered by the victim.
  • The existence of any previous record of domestic violence.

While not set in stone, courts typically order a minimum of 30 days for a misdemeanor domestic violence conviction. If it is a first offense, some judges allow the perpetrator to serve probation. Depending on the circumstances, a person can be charged with multiple offenses.

  • Jail Time for Domestic Battery. Referred to by the state of California as “battery” or “domestic battery,” battery is a willful, hurtful act that is intended to injure a domestic partner. Domestic partners can be a spouse, child, parent of a child, fiancé, boyfriend or girlfriend. Acts under this definition include grabbing someone’s clothing, punching, and kicking. Under the law, the maximum sentence for this type of offense is one year, or three years’ probation. If given probation, there may also be a fine of up to $2,000 and a requirement to complete a Batter’s Program.
  • Jail Time for Child Abuse. The California Penal Code calls for strict punishment for physical child abuse, including acts of fighting and bruising a child, or beating a child severely enough that marks are left. This abuse is considered willful and the Code can also be used to charge the crime as a felony. Charges depend on the facts of the case and the perpetrator’s history of abuse. Penalties include jail time up to one year and up to $6,000 in fines. Probation and completion of a treatment program are also options the court will consider.
  • Jail Time for Spousal Abuse. Also referred to as corporal abuse, spousal abuse under California Penal Code 273.5 occurs between intimate partners. Any claimed physical injury must be proven and that proof must be presented to the court. Injuries, which can range from broken bones to severe trauma, must have been inflicted willfully. Punishment ranges from probation to one year in jail, and a fine of up to $6,000 is also imposed.

What Determines Domestic Violence Offenses?

The severity of the penalties, including potential jail or prison sentences, varies significantly based on several factors:

  • Severity of the Offense:
    • Misdemeanor domestic violence charges typically involve less severe injuries or threats, and may result in shorter jail sentences or alternative penalties like probation.
    • Felony domestic violence charges, which often involve serious bodily injury, the use of weapons, or repeat offenses, can lead to significantly longer prison sentences.
  • Prior Criminal Record:
    • Repeat offenders, especially those with prior domestic violence convictions, generally face harsher penalties.
  • State Laws:
    • Domestic violence laws and sentencing guidelines vary from state to state.
  • Specific Circumstances:
    • Factors such as whether children were present, whether a restraining order was violated, or whether the victim was pregnant can also influence sentencing.

 

••Minella Law Can Help••

A conviction for domestic violence can result in a lengthy jail sentence. If you are dealing with a domestic violence issue during your divorce, a California family law attorney with experienced in domestic violence issues can explain your rights and guide you through the process. An experienced custody & family law attorney can help. We are ready to assist with all your family needs – we offer a complimentary consultation to discuss your needs.

Reach out to us for your complimentary consultation today at 619.289.7948

In Domestic Violence Restraining Orders, Family Law Blog

How To Request a Restraining Order

Types of Restraining Orders in a Divorce

How To Request a Restraining Order

A judge in San Diego may issue a restraining order as an official order prohibiting a particular action. An individual may seek a restraining order for various reasons, including copyright infringement, domestic abuse, harassment, legal disputes, and employment disputes. Anyone who applies for a restraining order must first send a request to their local court, which will determine the merit of the request by examining the evidence submitted.

Although restraining orders are limited in their duration, restraining orders are typically used as a form of immediate relief if  the petitioning party requires instant action to prevent harm or harassment. Although a permanent order can be possible, this usually takes months to to allow the parties time together evidence for a  full formal hearing. However, the process of obtaining a temporary order can be completed in a matter of days.

What to do First When Requesting a Restraining Order

Your first step in obtaining a restraining order will be to speak to an attorney who is experienced in the area, usually one specializing in family law. If you are concerned about an ex harassing you, or a spouse, then a family attorney could help to handle the details of a restraining order for you as well as the custody or divorce aspect of your case.

Next, you will need to gather as much evidence as possible to support your case. Remember that simply presenting a ‘He said’ or ‘She said’ case in court can be problematic, and ideally you should have more than just an accusation that an individual did something requiring a restraining order. Evidence can be gathered in various forms, you might for example, use threatening texts or emails, pictures, documents or even recordings of harassing phone calls. Police reports or witness statements can also be used to support your position.

Preparing a Request for a Temporary Restraining Order

This is usually a step that you should take with your family law attorney. In simple terms, you will need to prepare a document that will inform the judge what you want, and the reasons why you want it. Usually, these documents come in two types, the first, standard option simply asks for a restraining order temporarily and sets a date to have both parties appear before a judge.

The other document requests an ex parte restraining order, and this refers to a situation wherein only one party attends the court to ask the judge for an order. Typically, if a judge grants an individual an ex parte order, she or he will then set a hearing within fourteen days, allowing the other party to give their side of the story.  There may be children involved in this request, if there are a child visitation request also needs to be included with the request.

What Happens Next

The judge will review your paperwork that day and decide if a temporary restraining order should be granted or denied.  Whether it is granted or denied, a hearing will be set where both parties will have to appear at that hearing.  A notice will be officially served to the opposing party providing them with the date that they must attend the hearing. In this case, your attorney will use a process server that will handle the issue for you, meaning that you should not be asked to serve the notice on anyone’s behalf. Beyond this, all that will be left for you to do is to attend the hearing. Dress smart and do your best to stay calm throughout the proceedings, even if you feel yourself getting emotionally involved. The more clearly you can explain your position, the better chance you have of the process going smoothly.

••Minella Law Group Can Help••

If you or someone you know is the victim of domestic violence and need assistance obtaining a domestic violence restraining order the qualified staff at Minella Law Group can assist you. For more information or to schedule an appointment, click the button below, or call us at (619) 289-7948. We look forward to helping you.