An emergency protective order (EPO) is California's fastest protection: when law enforcement responds to a domestic violence call, the officer can request an EPO from a judge by phone, any hour, any day (Family Code 6250). It takes effect immediately and protects you for five court days or seven calendar days.
The EPO is requested by law enforcement, not by you — but you should ask for one at the scene. The judge can order the abuser to leave the home, stay away from you and the children, and surrender firearms. The point of the EPO is a bridge: it protects you until you can get to court and file for a temporary restraining order.
An EPO expires fast — and its expiration date is your filing window. Within those seven days, file for a temporary restraining order so protection continues without a gap. We prepare the TRO filing in advance of the EPO's expiration, so the protection never lapses.
In immediate danger, call 911. For protection planning and next steps, call (619) 730-7884 — free and confidential, through whatever channel is safe for you.
