Los Angeles Domestic Violence Laws: Your Legal Rights & How to Get Help
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects thousands of individuals in Los Angeles every year. If you’re experiencing abuse, it’s important to know that Los Angeles County courts and California law offer strong legal protections to keep you and your children safe.
In this blog post, we’ll explain how domestic violence is defined, how to file a restraining order in Los Angeles, and what legal options are available to protect yourself and your family.
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What Qualifies as Domestic Violence in California?
Under California’s Domestic Violence Prevention Act (DVPA), domestic violence includes any abuse or threat of abuse in an intimate or family relationship. Abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial.
Common Types of Abuse:
•Physical assault (hitting, slapping, choking)
•Verbal threats or intimidation
•Emotional manipulation and isolation
•Financial control or exploitation
•Stalking or harassment (including digital harassment)
•Sexual coercion or assault
You don’t need to have physical injuries to qualify for legal protection.
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Who Can File for a Restraining Order in Los Angeles?
You can file for a Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) if the abuser is:
•A spouse or former spouse
•Someone you’re dating or used to date
•A cohabitant or ex-cohabitant
•The parent of your child
•A close relative (e.g., sibling, parent, child)
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How to File for a Domestic Violence Restraining Order in Los Angeles
If you live in Los Angeles County, here’s how you can file a DVRO:
Step 1: Fill Out the Required Forms
You will need to complete Form DV-100 (Request for Domestic Violence Restraining Order) and other supporting documents. These forms are available online through the California Courts website or at your local courthouse.
Step 2: File the Forms at Your Local Courthouse
Los Angeles has several family law courthouses. Some of the main ones include:
•Stanley Mosk Courthouse (Downtown LA)
•Pasadena Courthouse
•Van Nuys Courthouse
•Long Beach Courthouse
•Pomona South Courthouse
Find your nearest court using the Los Angeles Superior Court website.
Step 3: Get a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO)
A judge may issue a temporary order that takes effect immediately and lasts until your court hearing.
Step 4: Attend the Hearing
Within about 21 days, you’ll attend a court hearing. If the judge believes ongoing protection is necessary, they may issue a permanent restraining order (lasting up to 5 years).
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What a Restraining Order Can Do
A domestic violence restraining order in Los Angeles can:
•Order the abuser to stay away from you, your home, your work, or your children’s school
•Prevent contact via phone, text, email, or social media
•Grant temporary child custody and visitation orders
•Order the abuser to move out of the shared residence
•Require child support or spousal support
Violating a DVRO is a criminal offense in California.
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Domestic Violence & Child Custody in Los Angeles
California family courts, including those in Los Angeles, take allegations of domestic violence very seriously when deciding child custody. If there is a finding of abuse, the court may restrict or deny custody to the abusive parent, or require supervised visitation to protect the child’s wellbeing.
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Local Resources for Domestic Violence Victims in Los Angeles
If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. Here are additional support services available in LA:
•Los Angeles County Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 978-3600
•Peace Over Violence: (213) 955-9090
•Sojourn Domestic Violence Services (Santa Monica): (310) 264-6644
•East Los Angeles Women’s Center: (800) 585-6231
•Safe at Home California Program: Offers confidential addresses for victims
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Why You Need a Los Angeles Domestic Violence Attorney
An experienced domestic violence attorney in Los Angeles can:
•Help you file and serve the restraining order correctly
•Represent you in court hearings
•Assist with child custody and support issues
•Protect your legal rights in divorce or separation
At our firm, we offer compassionate, confidential representation for survivors of abuse.
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Final Thoughts
Domestic violence is never acceptable. If you are a victim, know that you have legal rights and resources in Los Angeles to help you stay safe and start over.
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📞 Speak With a Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyer Today
If you’re facing abuse and need legal protection, we’re here to help. Our experienced Los Angeles family law attorneys can guide you through every step—from filing restraining orders to securing custody and support.
👉 Call Law Offices of Paul A. Eads at (626) 524-8418 for a confidential consultation.
Or book online now at https://www.covinadivorcelawyers.com/contact-us/