If you’re looking for legal protection from someone who’s threatening, harassing, or hurting you, California law offers a few different kinds of restraining orders. Two of the most common are Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVROs) and Civil Harassment Restraining Orders (CHROs). The main difference between them is the relationship between you and the other person. A DVRO is for people who are or were in a close relationship—like a spouse, dating partner, family member, or someone you’ve lived with. A CHRO is for situations where you don’t have that kind of close or family connection, such as with a neighbor, roommate, co-worker, or even a stranger.
A DVRO is meant to protect victims of domestic abuse, which can include physical violence, threats, stalking, or controlling behavior. It can also include orders for the abuser to move out, stay away, turn in any guns, or even pay temporary support or custody-related expenses. A CHRO, on the other hand, covers harassment, like repeated unwanted contact, threats, or stalking, that isn’t domestic, such as by a neighbor, co-worker, or non-romantic acquaintance. While both types of orders can tell the other person to stay away and stop contacting you, CHROs don’t include family law issues like support or custody.
These cases also go through different courts. DVROs are always filed and heard in family court, while CHROs are filed in civil court. Because DVROs often involve higher risks and ongoing relationships, judges can grant temporary protection more quickly. If you’re not sure which type applies to your situation, you can contact your local self-help center or domestic violence support organization for guidance. Getting the right kind of restraining order can make the process smoother and help you get the protection you need as soon as possible.
