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Domestic violence restraining orders are serious legal tools designed to protect individuals and families from abuse, threats, harassment, coercive control, and other harmful conduct.

We help clients seek protection through Domestic Violence Restraining Orders, Temporary Restraining Orders, and related custody, visitation, support, and property protections. Whether you need immediate protection or are preparing for a full restraining order hearing, our team provides strategic, compassionate, and experienced representation.

Why Minella Law Group?

SKILLED REPRESENTATION

  • Strategic Experience
  • Confidential 

FORWARD THINKING

  • Comprehensive Approach
  • New or Existing Cases

PERSONALIZED APPROACH

  • Zealous Advocacy
  • Dedicated Support 

Domestic Violence Is Not Always Physical

Many people assume domestic violence only means physical abuse. In California, abuse may include conduct that harms, threatens, harasses, controls, or disturbs a person’s peace. If you are unsure whether what you are experiencing qualifies, it is important to speak with an attorney quickly.

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Did You Know

What is a Domestic Violence Restraining Order?

In California, a DVRO is a court order signed by a judge that protects individuals from abuse or the threat of abuse by someone with whom they have a “close relationship.” This includes:

  • A current or former spouse.
  • A current or former dating partner or cohabitant.
  • The other parent of your child.
  • A close relative (parent, child, sibling, or in-law).

Temporary

A“temporary” restraining order (“TRO”) is a form of immediate, emergency relief given by the court to keep the parties separate to prevent “irreparable harm” until a full hearing is held.

Permanent

The court will hold a full hearing will determine if the TRO will become a permanent restraining order by carefully considering all the facts of the case.

 

Minella Law Group Pricing: What to Expect

Initial Consultation

This allows us to understand your goals and recommend a clear path forward that's best for your scenario.

Complimentary

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By The Hour

These rates are based on the attorney’s experience but more importantly, the complexity of your matter.

$395 / hr +

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Retainer

Range depends on the complexity of the case, level of conflict, and whether your matter involves high net worth or complex financial issues in San Diego and surrounding areas.

$5,000–$15,000+

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Our Domestic Violence Services

Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO)

To obtain a DVRO, there must be a domestic relationship between you and the person to be restrained. A domestic relationship includes parties that:

  • Are currently married or were previously married.
  • Are currently or previously dated; parties that are currently engaged or previously engaged.
  • Are currently or previously lived together intimately (a civil harassment restraining order is the proper remedy if they are merely roommates)
  • Have children in common
  • Are related by blood in the second degree, such as a parent, sibling or grandparent
  • Are related by marriage, such as a mother or brother-in-law.
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Our Domestic Violence Services

Civil Harassment Restraining Order (CHRO)

If you are not in a domestic relationship with the offending party, make sure to consider a civil harassment restraining order as the appropriate remedy. It is important to have legal representation by a qualified San Diego Family Law Attorney to carefully guide you through your options and protect you from harm.

We have many years of experience in obtaining restraining orders for every type of protection needed.

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Getting our help is easy, just fill out this short form and one of our qualified team members will reach out to start the conversation within a day.

*Please note that an initial consultation is not intended to provide legal advice, as we do not represent you at this stage and are not yet your legal counsel. The purpose of the consultation is to understand your situation, assess the nature of your case, and explore whether our firm is the right fit for your representation.

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What to Know

How Can Minella Law Help?

There must also be physical violence (generally within the past 30 days) or a threat of imminent physical violence to obtain a DVRO. Domestic violence does not have to be physical. It can also be emotional, verbal or psychological. Types of abuse include:

  • Intentionally or physically hurting or trying to hurt someone. Some examples include hitting, striking, battering, kicking, pushing, shoving, hair pulling. Abuse of a family pet can qualify.
  • Sexual assault or molestation.
  • Promises to cause harm to another.
  • Harassment or stalking; disturbing someone’s peace.
  • Destruction of personal property.
  • Keeping a person from going somewhere.
  • Making you or a person in your household afraid of bodily harm.
  • Attempting to assault or threaten bodily injury to you or a person in your household.
  • If there is a significant history of stalking a temporary restraining order may also be issued.
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Frequently Asked Questions About DVRO's in California

We’re sure you have questions! This isn’t easy and the best outcome starts with knowledge. Here are the top inquires we get about Restraining Orders.

What qualifies for a domestic violence restraining order in California?

A DVRO may be available when someone with a qualifying domestic relationship has abused, threatened, harassed, stalked, controlled, or disturbed the peace of another person.

Can a DVRO include child custody orders?

Yes. A domestic violence restraining order can include temporary custody, visitation, exchange, and communication orders involving children.

How long does a temporary restraining order last?

A temporary restraining order typically remains in effect until the full court hearing, where the judge decides whether to issue a longer-term order.

Do I need an attorney for a DVRO hearing?

You are not required to have an attorney, but legal representation can be very important because DVRO hearings may affect custody, housing, finances, and long-term legal rights.

Still Have Questions?

Here’s a blog post that breaks down how to get a DVRO in California.

Obtaining a DVRO
Obtaining a DVRO
Obtaining a DVRO