California Restraining Order Questions & Answers

January 15, 2023

A restraining order in California is a court order that prohibits someone from certain actions or behaviors toward another person. These actions or behaviors may include physical violence, harassment, stalking, or threatening behavior. Restraining orders can be issued against a current or former spouse, partner, or someone with whom the person has had a close relationship. The purpose of a restraining order is to protect the person who requested the order from further harm or abuse.

What if the Petitioner was Untruthful in their Restraining Order Petition?


If a petitioner in a restraining order case is found to have lied in their petition against the respondent, it can have serious consequences for both parties. The court takes allegations of abuse or harassment very seriously, and if the petitioner is found to have lied in their petition, it can undermine the credibility of their allegations and call into question the validity of the restraining order.

If the respondent (the person against whom the restraining order is sought) believes that the petitioner has lied in their petition, they can raise this as a defense in court. They can present evidence, such as witness statements or other documentation, to support their claim that the petitioner has lied. The court will then consider the evidence and determine whether the petitioner’s allegations are credible or not.

If the court finds that the petitioner has lied in their petition, the restraining order may be denied or dismissed. Additionally, if the court finds that the petitioner lied intentionally, they may face charges of perjury, which is a criminal offense.

It’s important to note that even if the petitioner lied in their petition, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the restraining order will be denied or dismissed. The court will consider all the evidence and arguments presented by both parties and will make a decision based on the facts of the case.

What Evidence Will the Judge Consider at the Hearing?


At a restraining order hearing, a judge will consider a variety of evidence in order to make a decision on whether to grant or deny the restraining order. The type of evidence considered will depend on the specific facts of the case and the allegations made by the petitioner.

Some of the types of evidence that a judge may consider at a restraining order hearing include:

  1. Testimony from the petitioner and respondent: The judge will hear testimony from both the petitioner and the respondent in order to understand the nature of the relationship and the alleged incidents of abuse or harassment.
  2. Physical evidence: The judge may consider physical evidence such as photographs of injuries, text messages, or voicemails that may support the allegations made by the petitioner.
  3. Witness testimony: The judge may consider testimony from witnesses who have knowledge of the relationship and the alleged incidents of abuse or harassment.
  4. Police reports: The judge may consider police reports if the petitioner has reported the abuse or harassment to the police.
  5. Prior restraining orders: The judge may consider any prior restraining orders that have been issued against the respondent in the past.
  6. The judge will also consider any other relevant evidence that may be presented by both parties.

It’s important to note that the evidence presented at the hearing will be subject to the rules of evidence, and the judge will decide what evidence is admissible and what is not.

Should I Hire an Attorney for a Restraining Order Hearing?


It is not required to hire an attorney for a restraining order hearing, however, it is highly recommended. While you have the right to represent yourself in court, having an attorney can greatly increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, and understand the laws and procedures involved in obtaining or defending against a restraining order. They can also help you gather and present evidence, and make legal arguments on your behalf.

Additionally, an attorney can help you understand the potential consequences of a restraining order, and provide you with guidance on how to comply with the terms of the order if it is granted. They can also help you with any modification or termination of the restraining order in the future.

If you are the petitioner, an attorney can help you to present your case in the most convincing way and make sure that the evidence you present is admissible. They can also help you to cross-examine the respondent and any witnesses they may call. If you are the respondent, an attorney can help you to challenge the allegations made against you and present evidence in your defense.

In short, hiring an attorney can greatly increase your chances of a successful outcome and help you to better understand and navigate the legal process. They can also ensure that your rights are protected and help you to understand the potential consequences of the order.

What are the Consequences for Violating a Restraining Order?


Violating a restraining order can result in serious consequences. If a person violates a restraining order, they may be charged with a criminal offense, which can lead to fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record.

In California, violating a restraining order is considered a criminal offense, specifically, it is a violation of Penal Code section 273.6. If a person is found guilty of violating a restraining order, they can be sentenced to up to one year in county jail, and/or a fine of up to $1,000. If the violation involves an act of violence, the sentence can be increased to up to three years in state prison.

Additionally, if the person is found guilty of violating a restraining order, the court may issue an additional restraining order or modify the existing order to include more restrictive terms.

Contact Us for Help with Your Restraining Order


If you wish to file a restraining order against someone, or you believe that a restraining order was unfairly served on you, then give us a call. Contact the Law Offices of John D. Rogers today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Orange County restraining order attorney.

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