Washington protective order

DVPOs are not the best choice for many survivors, so be sure to pair this information with survivor-centered advocacy. Completing this course constitutes 8 self-study hours. In this section, we will build a basic understanding of the types of protective orders available in the state of Washington. An Order for Protection can help keep you safe. However, an order is only one part of staying safe and may not be the safest option in every situation. While Washington Courts have taken special precautions to protect information transmitted on this site, please note that an abuser may be able to tell what Internet sites you have visited on your home computer.

The safest places to find information on the Internet are at a local library, a friend's house, or at work. Search for the corresponding forms to fill out from the sections below.

Please note: Once you log in to our virtual office, you will be placed in a waiting room until a customer representative allows you into the office. If you exit the waiting room while waiting for the customer service staff to let you in, you will lose your place in line. All virtual customers who want their protection order case heard by the Court on the same day are required to have all of the following completed no later than p.

Between p. Please feel free to use our LiveChat system for all other customer-service-related questions. Click here. For helpful instructions on how to join the virtual office via computer or mobile device:. Zoom requirements: website. Petitioners choose which type of protection order is most appropriate for them to pursue. However, protection orders do not cover everyone;s needs; there may be other legal remedies that are appropriate.

No contact and restraining orders can also order a person not to contact or harm someone, but they are not protection orders and are used in different situations. A SPO can be in place on a temporary basis, for one year or permanent.

Firearms prohibitions may apply to people restrained by this type of order. May be filed against someone who has engaged in a willful course of conduct that is unlawful or harassing and that seriously alarms, annoys or causes emotional distress and that serves no lawful purpose.

An AHO can be in place on a temporary basis, one year or permanent. May be filed by someone who is experiencing nonconsensual sexual conduct or nonconsensual sexual penetration by someone who is NOT a family or household member.

A single incident is sufficient to pursue a SAPO. A SAPO can be in place on a temporary basis, for one year or permanent. A VAPO can be in place on a temporary basis or for up to five years. May be filed by a family or household member or law enforcement against someone they believe poses a significant danger to self or others by having access to, the ability to purchase or receive, or actual possession of a firearm.

An ERPO can be in place on a temporary basis or for one year. The only relief an ERPO provides is the surrender and prohibition of firearms. It does not include any other protections. Must be filed as part of a family law case e. If you do not have an open family law case refer back to the types of orders listed above to determine which type of order to file.

A Restraining Order can be in place on a remporary basis or be permanent.