Restraining Order Attorney in Mammoth Lakes, CA

Types of Restraining Orders in California

California courts can issue several different types of restraining orders, each with its own purpose and timeline. In domestic-related cases, these orders often move quickly and may be granted before you have the opportunity to fully present your side. 

In domestic situations, the most common types include:

• Emergency Protective Order (EPO): Issued by law enforcement at the scene of an incident and typically lasting up to seven days. EPOs are often put in place following a domestic violence arrest.
• Temporary Restraining Order (TRO): Issued by a judge, sometimes without the other party present, and generally lasting two to three weeks until a full court hearing can be held.
• Permanent Restraining Order: Issued after a hearing where both sides can present evidence and testimony. Despite the name, these orders usually last up to five years and may be renewed.

Each type of order carries serious legal consequences, making it essential to prepare carefully for any scheduled hearing and comply fully with the terms in place.

What Does a Restraining Order Restrict?

The specific terms of a restraining order will depend on the circumstances of the case, but the limitations can be extensive and disruptive. Even temporary orders can immediately affect where you live, who you see, and what rights you can exercise.

Depending on the terms, a restraining order may prohibit you from:

• Contacting or coming near the protected person
• Returning to your home if you share it with the protected person
• Owning or possessing firearms
• Seeing or communicating with your children in certain situations
• Going to your workplace or your children’s school if the protected person is present

Violating any of these conditions, even indirectly or through a third party, can result in criminal charges, fines, and possible jail time. If you believe the order is unjust or based on inaccurate information, you have the right to challenge it at a court hearing and present your side of the story.

How Restraining Orders Connect to Criminal Charges

Restraining orders often arise alongside criminal accusations such as domestic violence, stalking, or making criminal threats. In Mono County, these matters may be addressed at the same time through both the civil restraining order process and a related criminal case in Mono County Superior Court. Because the two proceedings can move forward in parallel, it is important to have legal guidance that accounts for the full scope of what you are facing.

Sanford Horowitz Criminal Defense represents clients in Mammoth Lakes dealing with restraining orders connected to pending or potential criminal charges. Our firm can help you understand how a protective order may impact your defense, your rights, and the outcome of your case. We support clients across the Eastern Sierra communities, from Bridgeport and Bishop to Big Pine, Independence, and Lone Pine.

If you've been served with a restraining order in Mammoth Lakes or Mono County, don't try to navigate the process alone. Contact us online or call (805) 749-5670 today for a free consultation.