BAY AREA LEGAL AID

WHAT is the Restraining Order Clinic?
The Restraining Order Clinic assists individuals seeking or responding to domestic violence restraining order in Contra Costa County.

A Clinic Attorney assists people to complete restraining order applications and responses, and review legal documents to ensure they are complete and appropriate for filing.

The Clinic also provides information and instructional materials about applying for and responding to restraining orders, court procedures and other relevant community resources.

WHAT is a Domestic Violence Restraining Order?  
A domestic violence restraining order is a court order that prohibits domestic violence.  It can last up to 3 years and can be renewed.  There is no filing fee.  Violation of a restraining order is a crime.

WHAT to BRING?

• Preparing and processing a restraining order may take several hours.
• If you must bring your children, bring snacks and toys.  It can be harmful for children 3 and over to hear discussions at the clinic, so try to make child care arrangements.
• If possible, bring last year's tax return, last 3 pay stubs, copies of related court papers and police reports.
• There is no fee to file restraining order applications or responses.

APPLYING FOR A RESTRAINING ORDER - SCHEDULE as of August 2005:

Monday - Walk-in
Richmond Superior Court
100 37th Street
Richmond, CA
(510) 374-3364
Sessions begin at 8:30am and 10:00am.  Arrive early and go to the Clerks' Office (Room 185) for information an assistance.

Tuesday - By Appointment
Pittsburg
To schedule an appointment, please call STAND! at 1-888-215-5555.

Thursday - By Appointment
Pittsburg
To schedule an appointment, please call STAND! at 1-888-215-5555.

Friday - Walk-in
Richmond Superior Court
100 37th Street
Richmond, CA
(510) 374-3364
Session begins at 8:30am.  Arrive early and go to the Clerks' Office (Room 185) for information an assistance.

Concord - By Appointment
To schedule an appointment, please call STAND! at 1-888-215-5555.

RESPONDING TO A RESTRAINING ORDER -

You have the right to a court hearing, where you can tell the Judge your side of the story.  The clinic can help you with your responsive papers and provide information about the court process and community resources.

For Respondents
Thursday
Richmond Superior Court
100 37th Street
Richmond, CA
(510) 374-3364
Session begins at noon.  (Go to Room 175).

Where else can you go to Apply for or Respond to a Restraining Order?
You may also obtain and file forms for domestic violence restraining order cases at the Contra Costa County Superior Court in Martinez at the Family Law Center, 751 Pine Street, Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 3:00pm.