Domestic Abuse: Can I File a Restraining Order as a Minor?

Can I get an order of protection/restraining order without the help of an adult?
 

You may be able to get an order of protection on your own in family court – the main law covering family court orders of protection doesn’t have any specific rules for minors.

Various scenarios might happen:

• The judge might allow you to have a hearing without the help of an adult.
• The judge may want to appoint either a guardian ad litem or an attorney (formerly called a “law guardian”) to help you with your case. 
• The judge might order that your parent(s) be involved. If getting your parent(s) involved would put you in danger, be sure to let the judge know, and request that the judge appoint you an attorney instead.

For other information on restraining orders including but not limited to types of restraining orders, how long they last, what county to file in, what happens after the hearing, etc. , womnenslaw.org can guide you through the entire process and has many resources for shelters, domestic violence organizations, information on how to find a lawyer, courthouse locations, sheriff departments and more.