Find Safety After Abuse

Domestic violence—also known as intimate partner violence or family violence—involves a pattern of abusive behaviors that one person uses to gain or maintain power and control over another in a domestic setting.

Importantly, domestic violence goes far beyond physical harm. It often includes emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, and even digital abuse.

Who Is Affected by Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence commonly occurs between people in close or familial relationships. These include:

  • Current or former spouses
  • Dating or intimate partners
  • Parents and children
  • People who live together (roommates or cohabitants)
  • Siblings or other close relatives

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Domestic violence usually escalates gradually, often starting with subtle control and growing more severe over time. Some common warning signs include:

  • Constant criticism or verbal humiliation
  • Extreme jealousy or possessiveness
  • Controlling behavior (e.g., dictating clothing or social contact)
  • Isolation from friends, family, or work
  • Financial control (restricting access to money or employment)
  • Threats to harm you, your children, pets, or themselves
  • Physical injuries with inconsistent explanations
  • Digital surveillance (e.g., tracking your phone or monitoring messages)

What to Do If You’re Accused of Domestic Violence

Being falsely accused of domestic violence is a serious matter. If you’re facing charges or a restraining order:

  • Do NOT contact the alleged victim — even if you believe it’s a misunderstanding
  • Hire a San Diego Restraining Order attorney — this is critical
  • Gather evidence — texts, witnesses, photos, etc.
  • Attend all court dates
  • Comply with any temporary orders (no contact, custody, etc.)

How Can We Help?

At Restraining Orders Lawyers, we respond swiftly and with compassion to help you file or fight a Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO). Whether you’re seeking protection from abuse or defending against false or exaggerated claims, our San Diego restraining order lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the legal process—with discretion, dedication and proven results.

We help clients with:

  • Filing emergency (ex parte) protective orders
  • Requesting temporary and long-term restraining orders
  • Preparing evidence, witness statements, and court filings
  • Representing you at hearings in San Diego Family Court
  • Modifying or extending existing DVROs
  • Legal defense for restraining orders in San Diego if you’ve been wrongfully accused

We make all the difference by ensuring we hear your story and prioritize your safety.

Not Sure If You Have A Case? Start Here.


Choose Your Protection Options

  • Get protection from harassment, stalking, abuse or threats by someone you are not closely related to

  • Get protection for elders aged 65 or older—or dependent adults with physical or mental limitations

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

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

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

Facing abuse? Get help with Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
Don’t Wait.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You’ll need to complete legal forms and submit them to the San Diego Family Court. Our team can help you file quickly—especially in emergency situations—ensuring everything is complete and accurate.

A DVRO may include:

  • No contact or stay-away orders
  • Move-out orders
  • Custody and visitation restrictions
  • Firearm surrender requirements
  • Financial and property protections

Temporary DVROs typically last 20–25 days until the court hearing. If granted, a permanent restraining order can last up to 5 years and be renewed before it expires.

Yes. Abuse under California law includes verbal threats, emotional abuse, harassment, stalking, and coercive control—not just physical harm.

False allegations can have serious consequences. If someone has filed a DVRO against you, our team provides legal protection in San Diego to protect your rights and reputation.

While not required, working with a defense lawyer in San Diego ensures your case is presented clearly, with proper evidence, deadlines met and courtroom representation.


Understand Your Rights