Your Rights and Safety Matter

In California, civil harassment encompasses repeated acts of threatening or abusive behavior . In many cases, harassment or intimidation outside the home can cause real fear. That’s why victims can file a Civil Harassment Restraining Order for safety and peace of mind.

Typical relationships in civil harassment cases:

  • Neighbors
  • Roommates
  • Acquaintances
  • Strangers
  • Extended family like cousins, uncles or aunts

Legal Definition

In California (under Code of Civil Procedure § 527.6), civil harassment is defined as:

  1. Unlawful violence like assault or battery
  2. A credible threat of violence
  3. A knowing and willful course of conduct that:
    • Seriously alarms, annoys, or harasses the person
    • Serves no legitimate purpose
    • Would cause a reasonable person to suffer substantial emotional distress

Examples of Civil Harassment

  • Repeated, unwanted phone calls, texts, emails, or DMs
  • Stalking
  • Making threats of harm
  • Trespassing or vandalizing property
  • Repeatedly showing up at someone’s home or workplace uninvited
  • Online harassment (cyberstalking, doxxing, etc.)

What Can a Restraining Order Do?

A CHRO can legally require the restrained person to:

  • Stop contacting or harassing you
  • Stay a certain distance away from you, your home, work, or school
  • Not possess firearms
  • Possibly pay court/legal fees

Defending Against a Civil Harassment Claim

In cases where a CHRO has been filed against you and you believe it’s not warranted:

  • Read the paperwork carefully to understand the allegations
  • Show up to court (not showing up can result in the order being granted by default)
  • Gather evidence (texts, emails, witnesses, alibis)
  • File a response form (CH-120 in California)

Remember, you have every right to defend yourself. Should the judge find insufficient evidence, the restraining order can be denied.

How Can We Help?

Time matters in restraining order cases. Restraining Orders Lawyers move fast to help you take action—whether you’re seeking protection or fighting a false allegation. Your rights are our priority.

We assist clients with:

  • Emergency and long-term civil harassment restraining orders
  • Protection from stalking, threats, online abuse, or unwanted contact
  • Legal defense for restraining orders in San Diego filed without cause
  • Representation at court hearings and case preparation
  • Giving you the peace of mind against high-conflict neighbor, workplace or social disputes

No matter which side of a protection order you’re on, we have the best Restraining Order Attorney in San Diego to provide the strong legal support you need.

Have questions about your eligibility to file? Start Here.


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  • Elder Abuse

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  • Workplace Violence

    Seek court protection for an employee who has been threatened, harassed or assaulted at work

  • Gun Violence

    Temporarily restricts individuals at risk of violence from accessing firearms or ammunition

  • FAQs

    Explore answers to frequently asked questions about legal protections, court procedures, and more.

Are you being harassed? Protect yourself with Civil Harassment Restraining Orders
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Civil harassment includes:

  • Repeated unwanted contact
  • Threats of violence or intimidation
  • Stalking or following
  • Online harassment or cyberbullying
  • Disturbing the peace through aggressive behavior

For a deeper understanding of what behaviors qualify as civil harassment, click here to read our complete guide.

CHROs apply when the person harassing you is not a close family member, spouse, or romantic partner. If the person is a former partner or relative, a Domestic Violence Restraining Order may be more appropriate.

You must complete court forms, file them at the appropriate San Diego courthouse and attend a hearing. Our San Diego restraining order lawyer can guide you through the entire process and represent you in court. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Find out exactly how to apply for a restraining order in San Diego — our legal team explains each step clearly.

Yes. Evidence such as text messages, emails, voicemails, witness statements, or police reports strengthens your case. See what proof can strengthen your case. 

Yes. Police involvement is not required to file a CHRO, although documentation helps. We often assist clients who haven’t reported the harassment formally but still need legal protection.

False or exaggerated claims can impact your freedom, job, or housing. Our firm provides strong legal defense for restraining orders in San Diego to protect your record and reputation.

You’re not required to have one, but working with a skilled lawyer for protection orders in San Diego improves your chances of success—whether you’re filing or defending against a CHRO. Unsure about your case? Talk to us for free at (619) 356-1556 or fill out our form to get a consultation.

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