Understanding Family Violence Protective Orders in Georgia

In Georgia, a Family Violence Protective Order (commonly called a protective order) is a legal tool designed to help keep you safe if you have experienced violence or threats from someone close to you. It is intended to create boundaries and provide protections from family members or intimate people who may be causing harm.

Who Qualifies for a Protective Order?

Protective orders in Georgia are available to individuals who have experienced family violence from specific people in their lives. This includes current or former spouses, people you live with or used to live with, intimate partners, and certain close family members. The order can only be issued if there is a direct connection through family, household, or intimate relationships with the person causing harm.

Where and How to File for Help

You can file for a Family Violence Protective Order at your local county courthouse. Many courts have dedicated divisions or clerks familiar with these cases to assist you. If you are unsure about the paperwork or the process, local domestic violence centers and legal aid organizations can provide guidance, emotional support, and help with filing the necessary forms. Connecting with experienced advocates can make a significant difference during this stressful time.

The Process Explained

The process usually starts with applying for a temporary protective order, sometimes called an ex parte order. This order can be granted quickly and without the other person being present if there is an immediate risk of harm. After the temporary order is issued, the person named in the order must be officially notified (called service of process).

A full hearing will then be scheduled where both sides can present their cases. The judge will decide then whether to issue a longer-term protective order, which provides ongoing protections beyond the temporary period.

Types of Protection Available

Family Violence Protective Orders can include various kinds of relief depending on the situation. Typical protections may include:

• No-contact orders preventing the abuser from contacting or approaching you.
• Orders requiring the abuser to move out of a shared home.
• Custody or visitation guidelines to protect children involved.
• Orders for financial support or temporary assistance.
• Restrictions on possessing or purchasing firearms while the order is in effect.

Duration and Renewal

The length of these protective orders can vary and often depends on the judge’s decision and circumstances of the case. If protections are needed beyond the initial period, renewal or extension processes are available to help maintain safety over time.

Stay Informed and Supported

Because protective order laws and procedures may be updated, it’s important to consult local Georgia resources or legal professionals to make sure you have the most current information and support tailored to your situation. For comprehensive assistance and advocacy, visit DV Support and connect with trusted partners in the network dedicated to survivor safety and empowerment.