San Joaquin: Filing a Domestic Violence Restraining Order

HelpSelf's county-specific resources will help you file a domestic violence restraining order (DVRO) in your county. This article explains how to file a DVRO in San Joaquin County.

• Where to file:

You can file your papers in person at the San Joaquin Superior Court at:180 E Weber Ave,Stockton, CA 95202

• Who can help review my paperwork?

The San Joaquin County Superior Court Pro Per Clinic can help review your paper work, and you can find their schedule here. You can also call Victim Witness at (209) 468-2500 or the Women's Center at (209) 941-2611.

• How do I file my forms?
• (1) File your forms in person with the court.
• (2) Pick up your restraining order:
• If you file your papers with the court before 10 am, the restraining order will be ready the same day between 3:30 pm and 4:00pm.
• If you file your papers after 10 am, they won't be ready until the following court day between 3:30 pm and 4 pm.

• Do I have to give notice to the Respondent before I file my temporary restraining order forms?

No. San Joaquin does not require you to give notice to the Respondent before filing your initial temporary restraining order forms.But remember, you will still need to serve the document on the Respondent at least 5 days before the hearing date listed on your DV-109.Also, there are no local San Joaquin court DVRO forms.

• Who can serve my papers on Respondent?

Respondent must be served at least five days before the hearing. The Sheriff's office will serve your papers for free. You can also have someone over the age of 18 who is not party to the case hand-deliver the documents to the person to be restrained. More information here.