Step-by-Step: How to Get a Restraining Order in Seattle

Overview

In Washington State, restraining orders are legally known as Protection Orders.
They are civil court orders that prevent someone from contacting, threatening, or harming you. Seattle residents file them through the King County Superior Court.

This guide walks you through the process — including where to file, how to get emergency protection, and who can help for free.

1️⃣ Types of Protection Orders in Washington

Washington now uses a unified law (RCW 7.105) that consolidated prior orders (domestic violence, anti-harassment, stalking, sexual assault, etc.) into one streamlined system.

📘 Reference: RCW 7.105 – Protection Order Act of 2022

2️⃣ Where to File in Seattle / King County

You can file for protection online or in person.

🧭 In Person:
King County Superior Court – Seattle Location
📍 King County Courthouse, 516 3rd Avenue, Room C-213, Seattle, WA 98104
☎️ (206) 477-1400
🕘 Mon–Fri, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

• This office handles adult protection orders (DVPO, anti-harassment, stalking, etc.).

Family Law Center (Room W-382) — handles family-related DVPOs.

Regional Justice Center (Kent) — alternative location for South King County residents.

🖥 Online Filing (preferred for many applicants):
Washington’s Protection Order Portal lets you file online and track your case:
🌐 protectionorder.org

💡 You can also start through Washington Courts’ Guide & File System:
🌐 wa.courts.gov/guide-and-file

3️⃣ Complete the Required Forms

When filing online or in person, you’ll need:

• Petition for Protection Order (auto-filled via Guide & File or PDF packet)

• Temporary Order Request (if urgent)

• Law Enforcement Information Sheet (so police can locate the respondent)

Describe incidents clearly and specifically — include:

• Dates/times of abuse, threats, or stalking

• Details of any injuries or police calls

• Witnesses or evidence (texts, photos, emails, etc.)

• The relief you’re requesting: no contact, stay-away zones, firearm surrender, child custody provisions (if applicable)

No filing fee applies for DVPOs, stalking, or sexual assault orders.

4️⃣ Request an Emergency (Temporary) Order

If you are in immediate danger:

• Ask for a Temporary Protection Order (TPO) when you file.

• The judge will review your paperwork the same day — the respondent is not present.

• If granted, the TPO takes effect once served and lasts until your full hearing (usually within 14 days).

Emergency after-hours help:
🚔 Contact the Seattle Police Department — officers can connect you with a judge for an Emergency Order (EPO) anytime, day or night.

5️⃣ Service of Process

The order is not enforceable until served on the respondent.

• The King County Sheriff’s Civil Unit or Seattle Police Department usually performs service.

• You cannot serve the papers yourself.

• Service is free for DVPOs.

📍 King County Sheriff – Civil Unit
516 3rd Ave, Room W-150, Seattle, WA 98104
☎️ (206) 296-3800
🌐 kingcounty.gov/sheriff

6️⃣ Attend the Hearing

• The court will schedule a full hearing within about two weeks.

• Both you and the respondent can testify and submit evidence.

Bring:

• Copies of your petition and TPO

• Photos, messages, police reports, medical records

• Witnesses or declarations

If the judge grants a Final Protection Order, it typically lasts one year but can be renewed or made permanent.

7️⃣ After the Order — Enforcement & Renewal

• Keep certified copies with you at all times.

• Give copies to your workplace, school, or child’s daycare if relevant.

• Violations are criminal offenses — call 911 immediately if breached.

• The order is entered into the Washington State Judicial Information System (JIS), allowing enforcement statewide.

• To extend before it expires, file a Motion to Renew Protection Order.

🧾 Evidence Checklist

✅ Detailed written incident timeline
✅ Police or 911 reports
✅ Photos/videos of injuries or damage
✅ Text messages, emails, or social media screenshots
✅ Witness statements
✅ Medical or counseling records
✅ Prior protective orders or case history

💬 Seattle / King County Survivor Resources

⏱ Typical Timeline (Seattle)

❓ FAQs

Is there a fee to file for a protection order in Seattle?
No. Filing for domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault orders is free.

Can I apply online?
Yes — use protectionorder.org or the Guide & File portal.

Do I need a lawyer?
No, but the Protection Order Advocacy Program and Legal Aid Northwest Justice Project can help for free.

Can the judge remove firearms?
Yes. The court can order firearm surrender and prohibit possession under RCW 7.105.

Can I get a restraining order for my child?
Yes — parents or guardians can file on behalf of minors.

⚠️ Final Safety Tips

• Call 911 if you are in immediate danger or your order is violated.

• Use a safe phone/computer and clear your browser history after searching for help.

• Save important documents (order, photos, evidence) in a secure place or cloud folder.

• Tell trusted friends, coworkers, or building security about your protection order.

• For 24-hour confidential help:

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-SAFE (7233)

  • DAWN Crisis Line: (425) 656-7867

  • KCSARC 24-Hour Line: (888) 998-6423

You are not alone — King County’s advocacy network is one of the strongest in the U.S., and trained advocates can guide you safely through every step.