A restraining order in the United States is a civil court order issued by a judge that legally commands one person to stop harming or harassing another. These orders are designed to provide protection from abuse, threats, harassment, or stalking and are primarily enforced by law enforcement officials.
What is a Restraining Order?
A restraining order, also known as a protective order or order of protection in some states, is a formal directive from a court. It is a tool for personal safety that restricts a person's contact, behavior, and proximity to another individual or their family. The purpose is to prevent future acts of violence, threats, or harassment, establishing legal boundaries that, if crossed, carry serious consequences.
Types of Restraining Orders
While specific names and criteria vary by state, restraining orders generally fall into a few common categories based on the relationship between the parties and the nature of the alleged harm:
| Type of Order | Description
