Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Order of Protection

Originally published 10/21/2025

What is an Order of Protection? How can I get one?

Domestic violence includes child abuse, stalking, harassment, disorderly conduct, interference in judicial proceedings, criminal damage or trespass, sexual assault, kidnapping or custodial interference, assault, etc., as defined in Arizona Revised Statute (“A.R.S.”) 13-3601.

If you are in a relationship with a person who has committed an act of domestic violence, one of the first things you want to consider - after ensuring you and your children’s immediate safety - is obtaining an Order of Protection (“OOP”), commonly known as a restraining order.

An OOP is a court order intended to provide immediate safety for the victim/plaintiff, and to prevent further abuse or harassment from the perpetrator/defendant. An OOP may be granted if the court determines that “the defendant may commit an act of domestic violence” or “has committed an act of domestic violence,” per A.R.S. 13-3602. The statute also provides guidelines on specific consequences for the defendant, including limited or no contact with the victim, preventing drug/alcohol use or firearm ownership, etc.

In Arizona, an OOP is effective for two years, and you can reapply for an OOP when the current one expires. To file a Petition for an Order of Protection in Arizona, visit https://azpoint.azcourts.gov.

Contact our office for more information, CONTACT US | Castle Law.  

If you need immediate help, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 by calling 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), texting START to 88788, or visiting https://www.thehotline.org