What is a protective order?
A protective order is a court document
that prohibits the offender from
coming to the home, place of work or
school, of the victim, and prohibits
the offender from communicating
with the victim in a harassing or
threatening manner. Additionally,
and offender is prohibited from
possessing a forearm while the
protective order is in place.
Why do I need a protective order?
A protective order is valuable because
it allows the police to arrest the
offender immediately or to file an
arrest warrant if the person violates
the term of the order. Also, obtaining
a protective order establishes
court-documented history that lets
police know that you are the victim in
an ongoing situation of stalking or
violence.
How do I get a protective order?
A victim can obtain a protective order
by applying through the District
Attorney's Office after the violent or
offensive act has occurred.
(If stalking charges are filed but no
physical violence has occurred, a
magistrate's order for emergency
protection may be filed, however
the victim may not qualify for a two
year protective order. If you do not
meet the requirements for a two
year protective order alternatives
will be discussed)
Who is eligible for a protective order?
If you and the stalker/offender are
related by blood or marriage, or if you
have ever lived together, have a child
in common law, or if you have or used
to have a relationship of a romantic or
intimate nature, you may apply for a
protective order.
Contact the Harris County District
Attorney's Office for the information
about obtaining a protective order:
(713)755-5888
