What happens if I don't show up for a restraining order hearing?

Asked by: Prof. Kasandra Kessler  |  Last update: September 10, 2025
Score: 4.5/5 (2 votes)

If you do not go to the hearing, your temporary order will expire, and you will have to start the process over.

What happens if you don't show up to your hearing?

Issuance of Warrant: If you don't appear in court as required, the judge may issue a bench warrant for your arrest. This means that you will have a warrant for your arrest.

What happens if the plaintiff does not show up for a restraining order hearing?

If you miss your court hearing for a temporary restraining order in California, the court may dismiss your request for the order due to your absence. When a petitioner does not show up, the court often interprets this as a lack of interest or necessity in pursuing the restraining order.

How long does a restraining order last in NH?

If the judge decides that there was abuse and that there is also a credible threat to the plaintiff's safety, a final order of protection will be granted and will last for up to one year.

How do restraining orders work in Louisiana?

After the hearing, a judge can issue a protective order that lasts up to 18 months, and can later be renewed after a hearing in front of a judge. The parts of the protective order that tell the abuser to not abuse, harass, or interfere with you can last forever.

What Happens If You Do Not Show Up For Your Restraining Order Hearing? | Washington State Attorney

38 related questions found

Can a restraining order be dropped in Louisiana?

The court, on its own motion and upon notice to all parties and after hearing, may dissolve or modify a temporary restraining order or preliminary injunction.

What proof do you need for a restraining order in Louisiana?

If you're wondering what proof do you need for a restraining order in Louisiana, several types of evidence can help secure protection. Circumstantial evidence such as witness testimonies, text messages, and physical evidence documenting injuries can all support the case.

What to say in court for a restraining order?

I would consider any contact in the future to be a violation.” Tell the court why you would like the temporary restraining order injunction. Examples: “I want this injunction because…” “I fear for my child's safety.” “My child's life is in danger, I am afraid he or she will be hurt…”

How long do you have to put a restraining order on someone?

Generally speaking, there is no deadline to file for a restraining order. If you feel your safety is in danger, contact law enforcement immediately. But, keep in mind that the earlier you request the order after a domestic violence incident or crime, the better.

Why do restraining orders expire?

Restraining orders have expiration dates to ensure that they are still necessary. The court wants to make sure that the situation has not changed and that protection is still needed. When an order expires, the protected person can request a renewal if they still feel threatened.

What happens if the victim doesn't show up in court?

Subpoena the Victim

If the victim fails to comply, they could face legal consequences, such as fines or even arrest. It is not unheard of for the sheriff to drag an unwilling victim into court.

What happens if you miss a court date for a restraining order?

You may attend your hearing remotely (by telephone or by videoconference). For information on how to attend remotely, go to the court's website. If you don't attend your court date, the judge can grant a restraining order against you that can last up to five years.

What happens if neither party shows up to court?

The court could potentially dismiss the TRO if neither party appears, but this is not a given. If the person against whom the order was issued doesn't appear, but the petitioner does, the court may well decide to issue a permanent restraining order. I'm looking to modify my custody order in ca.

What happens if someone never shows up in court?

If the defendant didn't show up in your matter, the judge will likely call your case early as a default case. The judge will expect you to "prove up" your case by presenting evidence that there's a basis for your claim.

Can you still speak if you lose your hearing?

If someone has never heard spoken language, they are usually unable to talk at all. However, if they lost their hearing later in life, they may have some vocal capabilities that allow them to speak.

What is the best excuse for missing court?

Common Legitimate Excuses for FTA
  • Medical Emergencies. Life can throw unexpected events at us. ...
  • Unforeseen Accidents. Being involved in a car accident while on your way to court can also be a valid reason for an FTA. ...
  • Transportation Issues. ...
  • Unaware of the Court Date. ...
  • Bereavement. ...
  • Additional Information.

Can I be around someone I have a restraining order against?

These orders impose specific restrictions or conditions on the individual subject to the order, such as maintaining a specified distance from the protected person, refraining from contacting the protected person, or ceasing any form of harassment or intimidation.

How to defend yourself against a restraining order in California?

Here are some key defenses you can use to contest a restraining order in court.
  1. Claim False Allegations. If you can demonstrate that the claims made against you are fabricated or exaggerated, you could counter the order. ...
  2. Claim a Lack of Evidence. ...
  3. Present Counter Evidence. ...
  4. Claim Misunderstandings or Miscommunications.

How are you notified of a restraining order?

Restraining orders are typically served by the police. Having the police show up at your doorstep is not an experience many wish to have, but it is done in this manner because the court requires verification that you have been served with the restraining order.

What happens after a court hearing?

The judge will often tell you the judgment will come in the mail after the hearing, especially if both parties attended the hearing. Most judges do not want to hand out judgment right away. You may receive your judgment in the mail within two weeks.

Why is it so hard to get a restraining order?

If there isn't any current harassment, the judge won't grant the person's request. Unfortunately, courts have to be picky in their screening process because of too many people taking advantage of the court system by getting restraining orders because of personal vendettas.

What to expect at a TPO hearing?

At the hearing you must explain to the judge under oath what happened. You will want to describe each event of harassment to the best of your memory, what your harasser did and said, what emotions s/he was displaying, and how you felt and responded. You can also bring witnesses who saw or heard the harassment.

How much does a restraining order cost in Louisiana?

There is no charge for a Restraining/Protective Order. The Northwest Louisiana Family Justice Center can provide assistance with obtaining them. The center may be contacted at (318) 584-7171.

What information do you need to put a restraining order on someone?

Proving Harm
  1. Your testimony that the respondent harmed you.
  2. The testimony of any witnesses, such as a family member, who saw the respondent harm you.
  3. A police report that documents physical harm you sustained as well as any history of repeat violence.
  4. Medical records reflecting treatment for harm done.

What are the three types of protection?

There are three types of orders of protection that can provide victims with legal protections to support their safety—emergency protective orders, temporary restraining orders, and permanent restraining orders.