Orders of Protection (Restraining Orders)
If you’re experiencing threats, harassment, stalking, or domestic violence, an Order of Protection can create enforceable boundaries and help you regain safety and stability. At The Shapiro Law Firm, LLC, we help clients in New York City and across New York seek, defend against, and respond to restraining orders—especially when these issues overlap with custody, visitation, separation, or divorce.
Call (212) 444-8064 or request a confidential consultation.
What Is an Order of Protection in New York?
An Order of Protection (often called a restraining order) is a court order that can limit contact and behavior between people in certain relationships. Depending on your situation, an order may restrict calls, texts, emails, social media contact, or require someone to stay away from your home, workplace, or other locations.
What Can an Order of Protection Include?
Every case is different, but orders may include terms such as:
- No contact (direct or indirect)
- Stay-away provisions (home, work, school, specific places)
- Orders to vacate a shared residence
- Restrictions regarding harassment, threats, stalking, intimidation
- Provisions related to children, including boundaries around communication or exchanges (when applicable)
Family Court vs. Criminal Court Orders of Protection (What’s the Difference?)
Orders of protection may come from Family Court or Criminal Court, and the process and consequences can differ. We help you understand what’s happening and what steps to take next.
| Court | Common Situation | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Family Court | Petitions involving family / household / intimate-partner-related issues. | Often tied to parenting issues; orders can affect custody/visitation and communication. |
| Criminal Court | Orders issued in connection with criminal charges. | Violations can trigger arrest and additional charges; terms may be strict and fast-moving. |
Temporary vs. Final Orders of Protection
Temporary Order of Protection
A temporary order may be issued early in a case to address immediate safety concerns. It typically remains in place until the next court date and may be extended while the case continues.
Final Order of Protection
A final order may be issued after a hearing or agreement and can last for a longer period of time. The exact duration and terms depend on the circumstances and the court.
How to Request an Order of Protection (Step-by-Step)
While procedures vary by court and facts, the process often includes:
1) Identify the Right Court and Filing Approach
We help you determine the appropriate forum and how to present your request clearly.
2) Prepare Your Petition and Supporting Information
We help organize the timeline and supporting details so the court understands what happened and what protection is needed.
3) Court Appearance and Temporary Relief (When Available)
In some situations, the court may issue temporary protections early and set future dates to continue the case.
4) Hearing / Resolution
A final outcome may occur after a hearing, or sometimes by agreement—depending on the situation.
We Can Help You Navigate Orders of Protection and Restraining Orders
Other Family Law Services
Evidence That May Support a Petition
The court’s decision is fact-specific. Helpful information can include:
- Text messages, emails, call logs, voicemails
- Social media messages or posts
- Photos of injuries or property damage (if applicable)
- Police reports or incident reports (if applicable)
- Witness statements (if available)
- Any prior court orders or pending cases involving the parties
We also discuss practical safety considerations while your case is pending (communications, exchanges, boundaries, and documentation).
Served With a Restraining Order? What You Should Do Immediately
Being served with an order of protection can be frightening and disruptive, especially if it impacts housing, employment, or access to children. It’s important to take it seriously from the start.
Key Steps to Protect Yourself
- Do not contact the other party (even “friendly” contact can be treated as a violation)
- Read the order carefully and follow every restriction
- Keep proof of compliance and avoid gray areas (third-party messages, social media, “accidental” contact)
- Speak with an attorney before the next court date so your response is organized and effective
What Happens If an Order of Protection Is Violated?
Violations can lead to serious consequences. If you have an order and believe it was violated, document what happened and consider contacting law enforcement. If you’re accused of violating an order, getting legal help quickly can be critical to protecting your rights.
Why Clients Choose The Shapiro Law Firm, LLC
- Direct attorney guidance from start to finish
- Calm, strategic advocacy in high-stakes, high-emotion situations
- Experience navigating how orders of protection intersect with custody, divorce, and family court disputes
- Clear communication and practical next steps
NYC Orders of Protection Lawyer (Financial District — 11 Broadway)
The Shapiro Law Firm, LLC
11 Broadway, Suite 615
New York, NY 10004
Phone: (212) 444-8064
We serve clients throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, Staten Island, and across New York State.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about orders of protection (restraining orders).
Are “restraining orders” and “orders of protection” the same thing in New York?
People often use the terms interchangeably. The exact terminology and process can depend on the court and the situation.
Can an order of protection include my children?
In some cases, yes. Whether and how children are included depends on the facts, the court, and the requested terms.
How long does an order of protection last?
It depends on the type of order and the court’s decision. Temporary orders often last until the next court date; final orders may last longer.
What if the protected person contacts me?
You still may be at risk if you respond or violate the order’s terms. Only the court can change an order—don’t assume contact from the other party makes it “okay.”
Can an order of protection affect custody or visitation?
It can. Courts consider safety issues when making parenting-related decisions, and orders may impact exchanges, communication, or parenting time.
Speak With a New York Orders of Protection Lawyer Today
If you need protection—or you’ve been served and need to respond—timing matters. Call Call (212) 444-8064 or request a confidential consultation with The Shapiro Law Firm, LLC by submitting our contact form.