For individuals who are in danger of being injured by a family or household member, family law attorneys and the courts can help provide protection through restraining orders. A restraining order in Connecticut is a civil order that may be issued by the court even if an alleged abuser is not arrested.
To apply for a restraining order, you must fill out the appropriate court forms:
- Application for Relief from Abuse, which details the case and contact information
- Affidavit for Relief from Abuse that explains why a restraining order is needed, including because of incidents of physical harm, bodily injury or assault, or threats of violence resulting in a fear of imminent harm
- Request for Nondisclosure of Location Information for contact information to remain private
- Affidavit Concerning Children if you have children under 18 who live with you who also need protection
These forms must be filed at the clerkâs office and signed in front of the clerk or a notary public. Once the forms are reviewed by a judge, they are returned to you with a date to attend a court hearing. You must then give the appropriate forms, along with Restraining Order Service Instructions, to the state marshal to deliver to the alleged abuser. An experienced family law attorney is essential throughout this process.
On the date of the hearing before it begins, the court may ask you to meet with a Family Relations or Family Services officer to attempt to reach an agreement instead of obtaining a restraining order. If you cannot reach an agreement or the alleged abuser does not show up, the hearing proceeds. During the hearing, you may ask for a restraining order for up to one year or, if you already received a temporary restraining order, you may ask to keep the order in place. You may also request temporary custody of minor children. Once you obtain your order, it is important to keep a copy with you at all times.