BAY AREA LEGAL AID

Domestic Violence Restraining Order Clinic (pdf format)

Taller De Órdenes de Restricción Contra La Violencia Doméstica (pdf format)

WHAT is the Restraining Order Clinic?
The Restraining Order Clinic assists individuals seeking or responding to domestic violence restraining order in Contra Costa County.

A Clinic Attorney assists people to complete restraining order applications and responses, and review legal documents to ensure they are complete and appropriate for filing.

The Clinic also provides information and instructional materials about applying for and responding to restraining orders, court procedures and other relevant community resources.

The Clinic does not provide legal advice and will not represent people in Court.  Communications with Clinic staff are not confidential.

WHAT is a Domestic Violence Restraining Order?  
A domestic violence restraining order is a court order that prohibits domestic violence.  It can last up to 3 years and can be renewed.  There is no filing fee.  Violation of a restraining order is a crime.

APPLYING for a Restraining Order
You must have been abused by:  a current or former spouse; a current or former cohabitant; a person your are currently dating; a person you have formerly dated; a parent of your child; or a person closely related to you by blood, marriage, or adoption; 
AND
The abuser: caused or tried to harm you; assaulted you sexually; or made you fear immediate harm to you or another.

WHAT to BRING?

• Preparing and processing a restraining order may take several hours.
• If you must bring your children, bring snacks and toys.  It can be harmful for children 3 and over to hear discussions at the clinic, so try to make child care arrangements.
• If possible, bring last year's tax return, last 3 pay stubs, copies of related court papers and police reports.
• There is no fee to file restraining order applications or responses.

SCHEDULE as of June 2008:

Mondays - Walk-in Clinic (Petitioners ONLY)
Richmond Superior Court
100 37th Street
Richmond, CA
(510) 965-4048
Session begins at 9:00 am.  Arrive early and go to the Clerks' Office (Room 185) for information an assistance. (Please note: Arrivals after 9:30 am may not receive same-day service in Richmond.)

Tuesdays - By Appointment
To schedule an appointment and obtain directions, please call the crisis line for STAND! Against Domestic Violence at 1-888-215-5555.

Thursdays - By Appointment
To schedule an appointment and obtain directions, please call the crisis line for STAND! Against Domestic Violence at 1-888-215-5555.

Fridays - Walk-in Clinic for Petitioners OR Respondents
Richmond Superior Court
100 37th Street
Richmond, CA
(510) 965-4048
Session begins at 9:00 am.  Arrive early and go to the Clerks' Office (Room 185) for information an assistance. (Please note: Arrivals after 9:30 am may not receive same-day service in Richmond.)

RESPONDING TO A RESTRAINING ORDER -

You have the right to a court hearing during which you can present your side of the case before a judge.  The clinic can assist you by helping you to complete a response in your case, and providing you with  information regarding court process and resources available to you in the community.

For Respondents
Fridays at 9:30 am ONLY
Richmond Superior Court
100 37th Street
Richmond, CA
(510) 965-4048
     Be sure you have a copy of the Restraining Order documents that you've received and tell the clinic staff that you need help responding to a Restraining Order. 
     In East County and Concord, Respondents are assisted by appointments which can be made by calling 1-888-215-5555.

Where else can you go to Apply for or Respond to a Restraining Order?
You may also obtain and file forms for domestic violence restraining order cases at the Contra Costa County Superior Court in Martinez at the Family Law Center, 751 Pine Street, Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 3:00pm.