A temporary restraining order is issued by a judge the same day you file your petition — without the abuser present or notified (ex parte). It protects you from the moment it is served until the full hearing, which the court sets within 21 days (Family Code 242).
The TRO can order the abuser to stay away, stop all contact, move out of the home, and stay away from the children's school and your workplace. It can include temporary custody and support orders. The power of the TRO is immediacy: same-day protection on your declaration alone.
Because there is no hearing before a TRO issues, your written declaration is everything. It must state the specific facts: what happened, when, and why you fear future harm. Vague language produces weak orders. We write declarations with the detail courts look for — dates, exact words, injuries, witnesses.
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.
