When you’re dealing with threats, harassment, or abuse, protecting yourself and your loved ones becomes your top priority. In Arizona, restraining orders—also called protective orders—can offer legal protection and peace of mind during uncertain times. These court orders are designed to prevent further harm by placing clear legal boundaries between you and the person causing you fear or distress.
Who Can File for a Restraining Order in Arizona?
Anyone who has been threatened, abused, or harassed can ask the court for protection. In Arizona, both adults and minors (through a parent or guardian) can file for a restraining order.
The relationship between the person seeking protection (the petitioner) and the other party (the respondent) matters. Some types of protective orders apply only when there is a family or intimate relationship, while others apply to strangers or coworkers. To qualify, you need to show that the other person’s actions have caused fear, harm, or ongoing harassment—and that there’s a need for the court to step in to prevent further incidents.
Types of Protective Orders and What Qualifies
Arizona courts issue different types of protective orders based on the situation. Here’s a breakdown:
Order of Protection
You can request this if you have a domestic relationship with the other person—such as a spouse, former partner, roommate, parent, or child—and they’ve committed or threatened to commit acts of domestic violence. Qualifying behaviors include:
- Physical assault
- Threats of harm
- Stalking
- Intimidation
- Harassment
- Unlawful restraint or trespassing
Injunction Against Harassment
This applies when the parties don’t share a domestic relationship. If someone repeatedly contacts, follows, or threatens you, you can seek protection—even if they’re a neighbor, coworker, or acquaintance. A single incident typically isn’t enough; the behavior must show a pattern.
Injunction Against Workplace Harassment
An employer can request this type of protection on behalf of employees who are being harassed or threatened at work.
Emergency and After-Hours Orders
If you’re in immediate danger and the courts are closed, Arizona allows for Emergency Orders of Protection. These are granted by on-call judges and typically last until the end of the next business day. Law enforcement can help you request one if you’re at risk overnight, on weekends, or during holidays. Once you’re safe, it’s important to follow up with a more permanent protective order through the court system. We can help you take that next step quickly and safely.
Enforcement and What Happens If the Order Is Violated
Once a restraining order is issued and served, it becomes enforceable across the entire state. That means any law enforcement officer in Arizona can take action if the order is violated.
Violating a protective order is a criminal offense. Police don’t need a warrant to arrest someone who breaks the terms. Consequences may include jail time, fines, and criminal charges. If you believe your order has been violated, contact law enforcement immediately. Then, reach out to an attorney to review the next steps and help keep your legal protections in place.
Safety Planning and Resources
A restraining order is one piece of the puzzle. Having a safety plan can make a big difference if you’re dealing with an unsafe situation.
- Consider changing your routines and securing important documents.
- Let trusted friends or family members know what’s happening.
- Reach out to local advocacy groups, like the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, for support.
We can also help connect you with shelters, counselors, and additional resources as needed.
How Protective Orders Affect Divorce and Custody Cases
Protective orders often come into play during divorce or custody disputes. If one parent has a restraining order against the other, the court will take that into account when making decisions about parenting time and legal custody.
Judges may:
- Limit or deny contact between a parent and child
- Require supervised visitation
- Adjust temporary orders for child or spousal support
The presence of a protective order can shape the course of your entire family law case. If you’re involved in divorce or custody proceedings, it’s important to understand how the order could impact your rights and responsibilities. We’ll help you protect your safety and your interests throughout the process.
Moving Forward with Support
If you’re thinking about filing a restraining order, you don’t have to go through it alone. At Cohen Family Law, we’re here to help you take action, understand your options, and stay protected. Contact us today to talk confidentially about your situation and how we can support you.
