How to Protect Yourself
Feeling threatened, stalked, or harassed by someone can leave you feeling powerless. Arizona law provides legal tools to help you regain control and protect yourself—namely, Orders of Protection and Injunctions Against Harassment. At Rideout Law Group, our attorneys in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City can help you file the appropriate restraining order, gather necessary evidence, and represent you in court if needed.
What Is an Order of Protection?
An Order of Protection is a legal injunction intended to prevent acts of domestic violence. It is filed against someone with whom you share a domestic relationship—such as a spouse, former partner, relative, or person you live with. This court order can restrict the other party from contacting you, entering your home, or even visiting your workplace or school.
Arizona Revised Statutes §13-3602 governs these protective orders. If granted, the Order is valid for one year and can be enforced statewide.
What Is an Injunction Against Harassment?
An Injunction Against Harassment applies to individuals not related to you or with whom you do not share a domestic relationship. This may include neighbors, acquaintances, coworkers, or even strangers. Under A.R.S. §12-1809, harassment is defined as a series of acts that are directed at a specific person and cause them serious alarm, annoyance, or emotional distress.
This injunction also lasts for one year and may include provisions similar to an Order of Protection, such as no-contact directives and stay-away orders.
How Do I Get a Restraining Order in Arizona?
Whether you need an Order of Protection or an Injunction Against Harassment, the basic process is similar:
- File a Petition
You can file your request at a municipal, justice, or superior court. In some cases, filings can be done online or through Arizona’s Protective Order Center. You will need to detail the nature of the threats or harassment and provide as much evidence as possible (texts, emails, witness statements, etc.). - Judicial Review
A judge will review your petition and determine if immediate protection is warranted. If approved, a temporary restraining order is issued and must be served to the opposing party. - Hearing (If Requested)
The restrained party may request a hearing within 10 days of being served. This is where legal representation becomes critical—our attorneys at Rideout Law Group will prepare your case, present your evidence, and protect your rights in court. - Order in Effect
If no hearing is requested or the judge rules in your favor, the restraining order remains in effect for one year.
Why Legal Representation Matters
While you can file on your own, having an attorney significantly increases your chances of success. Our legal team—led by Brad Rideout and supported by experienced attorneys like Carolyn Keist-Gilbert and Steven Eckhardt—understands how Arizona courts handle protective orders and can navigate complex issues like false claims, retaliation, and custody-related disputes.
We also know how to act fast. Whether you’re in Maricopa County or Mohave County, our attorneys offer same-day consultations and urgent court filings from our offices in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City.
When Should You Seek a Restraining Order?
Consider filing if you’re experiencing any of the following:
- Repeated unwanted contact (calls, texts, emails)
- Stalking or following
- Threats of violence or intimidation
- Physical harm or attempted harm
- Harassment in public or online
Don’t wait until a situation escalates—legal protection is available now.
Take Action with Rideout Law Group
At Rideout Law Group, we’re committed to helping you feel safe again. If you or a loved one is being harassed, stalked, or threatened, contact us today for confidential legal support. We’ll guide you through every step of the restraining order process and fight to keep you protected.
📍 Scottsdale Office: (480) 584-3328
📍 Lake Havasu Office: (928) 854-8181
📲 Request a Free Case Review at rideoutlaw.com
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal guidance specific to your situation, please contact a licensed attorney at Rideout Law Group.