After filing your restraining order petition and receiving a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), you’ll attend a hearing where the judge decides whether to issue a longer-term order. Here’s what to expect.
Before the Hearing
Timing
Your hearing is typically set 20–25 days after filing. This date is on your TRO (Form DV-110 or CH-110).
Prepare Your Evidence
Bring everything that supports your petition: – Photos of injuries, property damage, or threatening messages – Screenshots of texts, emails, social media messages – Police reports – Medical records – Witness statements (written and signed, or bring witnesses in person) – Voicemail recordings (on your phone with a speaker) – Any other documentation of abuse, threats, or harassment
Organize Chronologically
Create a timeline of incidents — dates, what happened, who was present. This helps you present clearly under pressure.
Make Copies
Bring 3 copies of all evidence: one for you, one for the judge, one for the respondent.
The Day Of
Arrive Early
Get to the courthouse at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. Go through security, find your courtroom, and check in with the clerk.
The Process
- Check-in with the courtroom clerk
- Wait for your case to be called (may take 30 minutes to several hours)
- Petitioner presents first — You tell the judge why you need protection
- Respondent responds — They get to tell their side
- Witnesses testify (if any)
- Judge asks questions to both sides
- Judge makes a ruling — usually the same day
What the Judge Wants to Know
- What happened? — Specific incidents, not generalizations
- When did it happen? — Dates and times
- Are you in danger now? — Current threat level
- What are you asking for? — Stay-away distance, no contact, custody, move-out, etc.
Possible Outcomes
1. Restraining Order Granted (Up to 5 Years)
The judge finds sufficient evidence and issues a restraining order lasting up to 5 years. The order can include: – Stay-away order (typically 100 yards) – No-contact order – Move-out order – Temporary custody and support orders – Firearm surrender order
2. Restraining Order Denied
The judge doesn’t find sufficient evidence. The TRO expires and you are no longer protected by court order. You can refile if new incidents occur.
3. Continued Hearing
If more time or evidence is needed, the judge may continue the hearing to another date. The TRO usually stays in effect until the next hearing.
4. Stipulated Agreement
Both parties agree to certain terms (like a mutual stay-away) and the judge approves the agreement.
Tips for Success
- Be specific — “He threatened to kill me on June 3 at 8 PM in front of our children” beats “He’s always threatening me”
- Be calm — Crying is okay, but screaming or interrupting won’t help
- Don’t exaggerate — If the respondent catches you in an exaggeration, it undermines your credibility
- Address the judge — Look at and speak to the judge, not the respondent
- Don’t argue with the respondent — Let the judge handle their testimony
How Superior Court Docs Can Help
A well-prepared petition is the foundation for a successful hearing. Superior Court Docs prepares your complete restraining order paperwork so your case is presented clearly and completely from the start.
📞 (213) 973-7248 or get started.
Related: California Restraining Orders Guide | How to Get a Restraining Order in LA
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