What is a Protective Order?:

A protective order is a civil court order issued to prevent continuing acts of family violence.

There are 3 types of Protective Orders in Texas:

- Temporary Ex Parte Protective Order

- Final Protective Order

- Magistrates Order of Emergency Protection

A protective order prohibits the respondent from doing the following:

a) Committing family violence

b) Communicating in a threatening or harassing manner with a family or household member

c) Going near your partner’s residence and place of employment

d) Going near childcare and school facilities

e) Stalking

f) Possessing a firearm

Violation of these provisions is subject to immediate arrest.

A protective order may also do the following:

* Award child custody and visitation
* Award exclusive use of the residence
* Require the payment of support for the petitioner or parties’ children
* Award the use and possession of property
* Order the respondent to attend a Batterers Intervention and Prevention Program