Safer Communities Start with Prevention

Gun Violence Restraining Orders (GVROs) are civil court orders that temporarily prevent individuals who pose a danger to themselves or others from owning, purchasing, or possessing firearms and ammunition.

Key Statistics (U.S. as of recent data)

  • Over 48,000 gun-related deaths annually
    • ~60% are suicides
    • ~37% are homicides
    • ~3% are unintentional or undetermined
  • Firearms are the leading cause of death for children and teens in the U.S.
  • 120+ guns per 100 residents, making the U.S. the most heavily armed country in the world
  • Gun deaths are 25 times higher in the U.S. than in other high-income nations

What to Do If You Witness or Experience Gun Violence

  1. Call 911 immediately if there’s a current threat
  2. Get to safety—do not try to confront the shooter
  3. Report anonymously if needed (e.g., Crime Stoppers, tip lines)
  4. Document what you saw if safe and appropriate
  5. Seek trauma-informed support (counseling, support groups)

If You’re Accused of Gun-Related Violence

Whether it’s a threat, brandishing a firearm, or a discharge incident, the legal consequences can be severe. Take the following steps:

  1. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney
  2. Hire a criminal defense lawyer immediately
  3. Avoid social media or public statements
  4. Gather evidence of your actions and intent
  5. Comply with restraining orders or court orders

How Can We Help?

In California, GVROs are an important legal tool used to prevent firearm-related harm before it happens. Restraining Orders Lawyers helps families, law enforcement and concerned individuals file or respond to GVROs with care and urgency.

We assist with:

  • Emergency and long-term GVRO filings
  • Legal representation in GVRO hearings
  • Strategic advice for family members or law enforcement
  • Defense for individuals served with a GVRO
  • Guidance through firearm surrender or return

You don’t have to face this alone. Reach out to us today for a secure, confidential discussion of your options.

Not Sure If You Have A Case? Start Here.


Choose Your Protection Options

  • Domestic Violence

    Get protection from abuse or threats by a partner, family or household member

  • Civil Harassment

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

  • Elder Abuse

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

  • Workplace Violence

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

  • FAQs

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

Protect yourself and others. We offer help with filing Gun Violence Restraining Orders.
Proven Results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In California, a GVRO can be requested by:

  • Law enforcement
  • Immediate family members
  • Employers
  • Coworkers (with employer approval)
  • Teachers (with school approval)

Courts typically consider:

  • Threatening behavior or statements
  • Recent acquisition of firearms
  • Acts of violence or attempted harm
  • Mental health concerns
  • Domestic violence or substance abuse history

A protective order attorney in San Diego can help you gather strong supporting evidence.

  • Emergency GVROs (requested by law enforcement): Up to 21 days
  • Temporary GVROs (after a court hearing): Up to 21 days
  • Final GVROs (after a full hearing): Up to 1–5 years, and may be renewed

You must:

  • Surrender all firearms and ammunition
  • Refrain from purchasing or possessing guns while the order is in effect
  • Attend a hearing if one is scheduled

If you’ve been served, we provide to protect your rights and challenge the order if necessary.

Yes. The restrained person can request a hearing to terminate or modify the order before it expires. Our attorneys can help prepare and represent you during this process.

You’re not required to have one—but working with a qualified San Diego defense attorney greatly increases your chances of success, especially in complex or contested cases.

Understand Your Rights