Protective Orders

This information applies to Protective Orders in Virginia.  Click on these links for information related to Maryland or the District of Columbia.

What Is a Protective Order?

A Protective Order is a legal order issued by a magistrate or judge to protect one person from being physically abused or threatened by another person. A Protective Order is issued in cases of domestic violence and stalking to protect the health and safety of an abused person and his/her family or household members. There is no cost to file for a Protective Order.

What Can a Protective Order Do?

•          Legally order someone to stop abusing or threatening you
•          Prohibit the person from contacting you at home, at work, or by phone
•          Order the abuser removed from the home you share with him or her
•          Grant temporary custody/visitation of children
•          Provide any other relief necessary for your protection

The order is not effective until the abuser receives a copy. If the abuser violates the Protective Order, it can result in jail time.

What Are the Types of Protective Orders?

There are three types of Protective Orders: 1) Emergency, 2) Preliminary, 3) Permanent

Emergency Protective Order

If you have been assaulted recently, you may obtain an EPO through the police department or a magistrate. An EPO last up to 72 hours.

Preliminary Protective Order

You must file for a Preliminary Protective Order in person through the intake office of the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court (in Virginia). This order lasts up to 15 days. A judge will determine a date for a hearing on the Permanent Protective Order.

Permanent Protective Order

A Permanent Protective Order is effective for up to two years. It will be issued only after a full hearing, where both parties have the opportunity to present evidence for their side. You must be present at the hearing or your petition will be dismissed. You are not required to have a lawyer, but you may wish to have one assist you.

A Protective Order obtained in one state must be enforced in all other states. If you relocate, contact the court in your area.

Where Do I Go to File for a Protective Order?

In Virginia, go to the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court nearest you. Here are the addresses and phone numbers for Northern Virginia:

Alexandria                   520 King Street, Alexandria               703-746-4141

Arlington                     1425 N. Courthouse Rd., Arlington     703-228-4495

Fairfax                         4110 Chain Bridge Rd., Fairfax           703-246-3040

Falls Church                 300 Park Ave., Falls Church               703-248-5098

Fauquier                      14 Main St., Warrenton                     540-422-8040

Loudoun                      18 East Market St., Leesburg            703-777-0300

Prince William              9311 Lee Ave., Manassas                  703-792-6160

For your convenience, you can fill out the Protective Order petition form online through I-CAN! (Interactive Community Assistance Network). However, you must print out the completed forms and take them in person to the appropriate Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.

Click here and here for more information on Protective Orders in Virginia.