In San Diego, the path to safety for domestic violence survivors is often a race against time. A Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) is a critical tool for legal protection, but the traditional filing process can be lengthy and intimidating. In a monumental leap forward for survivor safety, the San Diego Hall of Justice has launched a new e-Filing system that allows survivors to petition for a DVRO for free, with the potential for a court review and Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) issuance in as little as 24 hours.

This new initiative is a direct response to the urgent needs of the community. It addresses two major barriers that have historically prevented survivors from seeking legal protection:

1. Financial Barriers Eliminated: Filing fees for DVRO petitions have been completely waived. This means that a survivor's financial situation will no longer stand in the way of their right to safety.
2. Expedited Processing: The new e-Filing portal is designed to streamline the administrative process. When a petition is submitted electronically, it is quickly routed to a judge for review, significantly reducing the wait time for a TRO.

This guide will walk you through the process of using the San Diego Superior Court’s new e-Filing system.

Step 1: Gather Your Information and Evidence

Before you log on, have all the necessary information ready. This includes:

• The abuser's full name, address, and date of birth.

• A written, factual account of the abuse, including dates, times, and locations.

• Any supporting evidence, such as photos of injuries, screenshots of text messages, or police report numbers.

Step 2: Access the Hall of Justice Portal

Visit the official website for the San Diego Superior Court and find the section for "Domestic Violence Restraining Orders." Look for the link to the new e-Filing portal. The portal is secure and user-friendly, designed to guide you through the process.

Step 3: Complete the Forms Electronically

The portal will walk you through the required forms, primarily the DV-100 form. Be sure to:

• Be Specific and Factual: When detailing the abuse, use a clear and objective tone. For example, instead of saying "he was abusive," write "he pushed me against a wall on [Date] at [Location]."

• Use Attachments if Needed: If your account of the abuse is lengthy, the portal will allow you to add attachments to provide a complete picture for the judge.

Step 4: Upload Your Evidence and Submit

The e-Filing system has a secure section for uploading your supporting evidence. Once you have uploaded all your files and reviewed your forms for accuracy, click the final "Submit" button.

After you submit your petition, the system sends it directly to a judge for review. The court is prioritizing these filings, which means a judge could review your case and issue a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) within 24 hours. Once the TRO is issued, it provides you with immediate, temporary legal protection until your full court hearing. The court will notify you of the status of your petition and the details of your hearing via email.

While the new e-Filing system is user-friendly, it's still a complex legal process. The San Diego Superior Court has a number of community partners, including the San Diego Family Justice Center and various legal aid organizations, that can provide free, confidential assistance with the filing process and offer ongoing support.

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1. Is filing for a DVRO in San Diego now truly free?

Yes. As part of a new initiative, the San Diego Hall of Justice has eliminated all filing fees for Domestic Violence Restraining Orders.

2. How long does the 24-hour process actually take?

While the new system is designed to expedite the process, the 24-hour timeframe is a target and not a guarantee. However, it is significantly faster than the traditional filing method.

3. What if I don't have a computer or safe internet access?

The San Diego Family Justice Center and other legal aid organizations in San Diego offer computers with secure internet access and staff who can assist you with the e-Filing process in a safe environment.

4. Is my personal information safe online?

Yes. The San Diego Superior Court's e-Filing portal is a secure and encrypted system designed to protect your personal and confidential information.

5. What does a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) do?

A TRO provides you with immediate, temporary legal protection by ordering the abuser to stay away from you, your home, your work, and your children until a full court hearing can be held.

6. Do I still need to go to court if I file online?

Yes. The e-Filing process handles the initial petition and the TRO, but a full court hearing is required to obtain a long-term restraining order.