Step-by-Step: How to Get a Restraining Order in Washington, D.C. (2025)

Overview

In the District of Columbia, a “restraining order” is legally called a Civil Protection Order (CPO). It’s issued by the D.C. Superior Court and can protect you from domestic violence, stalking, harassment, or threats.

If you are in immediate danger, you can also ask for a Temporary Protection Order (TPO) — a fast, short-term order that provides immediate safety until your hearing.

This guide explains how to apply, what to bring, and where to find free local help in Washington, D.C.

1️⃣ Understand the Types of Protection Orders

📘 Authority: D.C. Code § 16-1001 through § 16-1005 (Domestic Violence Procedures)

2️⃣ Where to File in Washington, D.C.

All protection orders are handled by the D.C. Superior Court – Domestic Violence Division.

📍 D.C. Superior Court, Domestic Violence Division
500 Indiana Avenue NW, Room 4510
Washington, D.C. 20001
☎️ (202) 879-0157
🕘 Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

After-hours emergencies:
If the courthouse is closed, call or visit the D.C. Safe Harbor Advocacy Center or the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) — a judge is available to issue emergency TPOs after hours.

3️⃣ Determine Eligibility

You can apply for a CPO if the respondent:

• Is a spouse, partner, family, or household member

• Has committed or threatened assault, stalking, sexual abuse, or property destruction

• Has coerced, harassed, or intimidated you

• Has violated a prior court order

If the person is not a household or family member, you can still apply for a Stalking or Sexual Assault Protection Order under the Intrafamily Offenses Act.

4️⃣ Fill Out the Petition Forms

You’ll need to complete:

• Petition for Civil Protection Order (Form CPO-001)

• Addendum for Confidential Information (if you want your address sealed)

• Temporary Protection Order request (optional, if in immediate danger)

You can complete these in person at the courthouse or file online through:
🌐 D.C. Superior Court eFile System

💡 The Domestic Violence Intake Centers (DVIC) — located at both the courthouse and at United Medical Center — have advocates who can help fill out your forms safely and confidentially.

5️⃣ Request a Temporary Protection Order (TPO)

If you believe you are in immediate danger:

• Check the box requesting a Temporary Protection Order.

• A judge will review your petition the same day.

• The respondent is not notified beforehand (ex parte hearing).

• If granted, your TPO takes effect once served and lasts up to 14 days.

The court will then schedule a full Civil Protection Order hearing.

6️⃣ Serve the Respondent

The order becomes valid only after service on the respondent.

• You cannot serve it yourself.

• The U.S. Marshals Service or the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) will handle delivery at no cost.

• Provide any details you have (address, workplace, vehicle description).

If service cannot be completed before your hearing, the court can extend the TPO until the respondent is served.

7️⃣ Attend the Hearing (CPO Hearing)

The court will schedule your CPO hearing within about 2 weeks.

Bring:

• A copy of your filed petition and TPO

• Police or hospital reports

• Photos, texts, emails, or voicemails showing abuse or threats

• Witnesses or affidavits if possible

• Evidence of prior incidents or restraining orders

The respondent will have a chance to appear and respond. If the judge finds enough evidence that the respondent committed or is likely to commit an offense, the judge will issue a Civil Protection Order (CPO) lasting up to one year.

8️⃣ After the Order — Enforcement & Renewal

• Keep a certified copy of your CPO with you at all times.

• Violations of a CPO or TPO are criminal offenses — call 911 immediately.

• The order is entered into NCIC (the national law enforcement database).

• Before it expires, you may request an extension (Form CPO-003) if threats continue.

If the abuser violates the order, you can also file a Motion for Criminal Contempt.

🧾 Evidence Checklist

✅ Detailed written statement describing abuse or threats
✅ Police/incident reports
✅ Photos or screenshots of injuries, property damage, or messages
✅ Texts, emails, DMs, voicemails
✅ Medical or counseling records
✅ Witness statements
✅ Proof of relationship (if relevant)
✅ Copies of prior restraining orders or arrests

💬 Washington, D.C. Survivor Resources

⏱ Typical Timeline (Washington, D.C.)

❓ FAQs

Is there a fee to file for a CPO in D.C.?
No. There is no filing fee for victims of domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault.

Can I apply online?
Yes — through the D.C. Courts Domestic Violence eFiling Portal: dccourts.gov/services/domestic-violence-intake-center

Do I need a lawyer?
No, but the Network for Victim Recovery (NVRDC) and Safe Harbor DVIC can provide free legal advocates.

Can the judge order the abuser to move out?
Yes. Under D.C. Code §16-1005(c), the court can order the respondent to vacate a shared home and surrender firearms.

What happens if they violate the order?
It’s a criminal offense. Call 911 — MPD will enforce it immediately.

⚠️ Final Safety Notes

• Always call 911 if you’re in danger.

• Use a safe computer or phone; clear your browsing history after searching for help.

• Tell trusted friends or coworkers about your order.

• Keep emergency contacts and copies of your CPO in multiple safe places.

For confidential help anytime, contact:
📞 D.C. Victim Hotline (24/7): (844) 443-5732 • dcvictim.org