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1. Who may obtain an Order of Protection?

Per the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 26.50, this civil order can be obtained by any person who is a victim of domestic violence or fears violence by a "family or household member" (persons who are married, divorced, or have a child in common, adult persons who are related or who reside(d) together and persons 16 years and older who are/been dating).

2. What can an Order of Protection do?

Prohibit contact of any kind. Remove abuser from shared residence and prohibit from entering. Give temporary custody of children and set visitation schedule. Can be tailored to individual needs.

3. How is an Order of Protection obtained?

This type of order can be obtained in Superior Court Clerk’s Office. The judge will review the paperwork and grant or deny a temporary emergency order effective for up to 14 days. The other party is served with the petition, notice of hearing and temporary order. A hearing is scheduled within 2 weeks at which time the judge may deny or grant an order which could be entered as permanent.

To obtain forms or learn more, visit the Clerk of Superior Court page.

4. What is the cost to obtain an Order of Protection?

There is no cost to the petitioner.

5. What happens if the Order of Protection is knowingly violated?

Mandatory arrest if the abuser violates "restraint" provisions or enters a residence where prohibited from entering. Possible criminal or contempt charges.