Stewart Law Office
Restraining & Protective Orders
Legal Protection When You Need It Most
If you or a family member has been the victim of domestic violence, threats, or harassment, The Stewart Law Office can help you obtain a Temporary Protective Order (TPO) for your safety and peace of mind. A TPO provides legal notice to the offender that he or she is restricted from contact with you by the State of Georgia.
Emergency Situation?
If you are in immediate danger, call 911 immediately. If you need urgent legal assistance with a protective order, contact our office right away.
Understanding Protective Orders in Georgia
Protective orders, also known as restraining orders, are court-issued legal documents designed to protect individuals from harassment, abuse, stalking, or threats. In Georgia, several types of protective orders are available depending on your relationship with the person and the type of behavior involved.
At Stewart Law Office, we understand that seeking a protective order can be both emotionally challenging and legally complex. We provide compassionate, confidential assistance to help you obtain the protection you need, or defend against unfair protective order requests.
Our Services:
Temporary protective orders
A Temporary Protective Order (TPO) provides immediate protection in emergency situations, including when the court is closed or unavailable. These orders may be issued without notice to the other party based on a sworn petition, take effect immediately upon service, and remain in place until a court hearing is held, typically within 30 days.
Stalking protective orders
A Stalking Protective Order may be requested by anyone who has been the victim of stalking, regardless of their relationship to the offender. Stalking includes repeated following, surveillance, unwanted contact or approaches, appearing at a person's home or workplace, or other harassing conduct that serves no legitimate purpose and causes fear or emotional distress.
Family violence protective orders
A Family Violence Protective Order may be requested by family or household members who have experienced family violence, including spouses, parents of the same child, intimate partners, relatives, or household members. These orders prohibit violence, harassment, stalking, unwanted contact, and approaching the protected person's home, workplace, or school.
Defense against false claims
Defending against protective order requests requires taking the matter seriously from the outset. Even false allegations can have serious consequences, including criminal charges for violations, loss of firearm rights, and lasting damage to your reputation.
How to Obtain a Protective Order
- 1
Prepare Documentation
Gather evidence of harassment, threats, or violence including photos, text messages, emails, witness statements, police reports, and medical records.
- 2
File Petition
Complete and file the appropriate petition with the court, providing detailed information about the incidents and requested protections.
- 3
Emergency Review
For temporary orders, a judge will review your petition immediately and may issue protection without a hearing if emergency criteria are met.
- 4
Service of Process
The respondent must be properly served with the petition and any temporary order before it becomes enforceable.
- 5
Court Hearing
Both parties appear before the judge to present evidence and testimony regarding the need for a protective order.
- 6
Final Order
The judge issues a decision granting or denying the protective order and establishes specific terms and duration.
Important Considerations
- Act Quickly: Time is critical in protective order cases. Evidence can disappear and memories fade, so seek legal help immediately.
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all incidents, communications, and violations. This documentation is crucial for your case.
- Safety First: Your safety is the top priority. If you're in immediate danger, call 911 before calling an attorney.
- False Allegations: False protective order requests can have serious consequences. Defend your rights with experienced legal representation.
Ready to Protect Your Rights?
Contact Stewart Law Office today for experienced legal representation you can trust
The Stewart Law Office focuses on family law and serves these counties in Georgia: Athens-Clarke, Barrow, Greene, Gwinnett, Jones, Morgan, Newton, Oconee, Rockdale, Taliaferro, Walton, and the surrounding Atlanta area.