A protective order can prohibit or limit an abuser from interacting with you in instances of family violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, or stalking.
If you believe a protective order might be right for your situation, this page will help you get started.
What is a protective order?
A protective order is a set of legal rules issued by a judge that prohibits or limits how one person interacts with another person.
A protective order can:
- Provide protection and prohibit an abuser from communicating with you in a threatening or harassing manner.
- Provide a 200-yard stay away from your residence, work, school, or daycare.
- Prohibit the abuser from owning or possessing a firearm.
A judge will ultimately decide how long the order lasts but in most cases they’re in place for two years.
Breaking the terms of a protective order can carry serious legal consequences including fines and jail time.
Protective orders can be issued to any person who has been the victim of family violence, stalking, sexual assault, and/or trafficking, regardless of their citizenship or legal status.
According to the National Institute of Justice, protective orders are as much as 80% effective in reducing future violence.
Getting a protective order is free.
To get a Protective Order issued in Travis County, the act(s) of violence must have happened in the county or the victim or their abuser must live in the county.
When can a protective order help me?
There a several types of protective orders. Select the one that bests fits your situation:
Family Violence Protective Order
If you experienced acts of violence from a family, dating partner, or household member, a protective order may prohibit them from contacting you or going near you, and stop them from doing more harm
Sexual Assault/Trafficking Protective Order
If you or your child has experienced sexual assault or have been a victim of human trafficking, a protective order may be a tool to keep you safe from future violence.
Stalking Protective Order
If you have received repeated and/or unwanted contact from someone, you may qualify for a Stalking Protective Order. You don’t need to be in a relationship with the abuser to qualify
Burglary Protective Order
If you have experienced an intruder entering a house or building, without consent, and the intruder intended to commit a felony you may qualify for a protective order. You don’t need to be in a relationship with the person who committed this act to qualify.
