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

Overview

In Texas, what most people call a “restraining order” is usually a Protective Order. Dallas County survivors can apply through the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office (DCDAO) or by filing at the courthouse. This guide covers forms, where to go, how service works, and what to expect at the hearing. (Dallas County)

1) Know Your Options (Texas)

Texas recognizes several protective orders, commonly:

• Temporary Ex Parte Protective Order (fast, without the respondent present, if you’re in immediate danger)

• Final Protective Order (after a hearing)

• Magistrate’s Order of Emergency Protection (MOEP) (issued by a criminal court after an arrest)

Texas uses standardized protective order forms required by law (SB 48). Always start with those. (Texas Courts)

2) Where to File in Dallas County

You can start with the District Attorney (free help) or file directly with the clerk/courts.

Dallas County District Attorney — Protective Orders
Frank Crowley Courts Building
133 N. Riverfront Blvd, LB 19, Dallas, TX 75207
Main: (214) 653-3600 • PO Unit: (214) 653-3605 / (214) 653-3528
(Assistance applying; prosecutors represent victims seeking protective orders.) (Dallas County)

District / Family Clerk (filing counters)
George L. Allen Sr. Courts Building
600 Commerce St, Suite 103, Dallas, TX 75202 • Hours: 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (Dallas County)

Dallas Police also publishes protective-order info and the DA contact for Dallas County survivors. (Dallas Police)

3) Get the Right Forms

Use the Texas OCA Standardized Protective Order Forms (statewide-required). They include the Application, Temporary (Ex Parte), and Final Order templates, plus instructions. (Texas Courts)

Helpful form kits and explanations are also available from the Texas State Law Library and TexasLawHelp. (Texas Library Guides)

What to write: Specific dates, times, locations, what happened, threats/abuse, weapons, injuries, witnesses, prior reports, and exactly what you’re requesting (no contact, stay-away, move-out, firearm restrictions, etc.). (Texas Library Guides)

4) Ask for a Temporary (Ex Parte) Order

When you apply, request a Temporary Ex Parte Protective Order if you’re in immediate danger. A judge can grant this without notifying the respondent first; it typically lasts until the full hearing. (If the case is tied to an arrest, a MOEP may be issued by a magistrate.) (Dallas County)

5) Service: Getting the Respondent Served

Your order isn’t enforceable until the respondent is personally served with the application, temporary order (if any), and hearing notice. Service is often coordinated by the DA’s office or made by Constable/Sheriff civil process. (Dallas County)

6) The Hearing (Final Protective Order)

A hearing is typically set within a few weeks of the temporary order. Bring:

• Your sworn statement (timeline of incidents)

• Texts, emails, social posts, voicemails

• Photos/videos (injuries, damage)

• Police/911 reports

• Medical/clinic records

• Witnesses or declarations

If the judge finds the legal criteria met, a Final Protective Order issues (often up to two years; can be longer in certain circumstances). (Texas Library Guides)

7) After the Order: Enforcement & Safety

• Keep a certified copy with you and share with your child’s school or workplace as needed.

• If the respondent violates the order, call 911; violations can be a criminal offense. Dallas Police publish safety tips and enforcement notes. (Dallas Police)

• You can ask the court to modify, extend, or renew the order before it expires. (TexasLawHelp explains negotiated/Agreed Orders and renewals.) (TexasLawHelp.org)

Evidence Checklist (bring to court)

✅ Detailed sworn narrative (dates/times/locations)
✅ Police/incident reports or 911 logs
✅ Medical records / photos of injuries or damage
✅ Screenshots of texts, emails, DMs, social media
✅ Witness statements or contact info
✅ Any prior protective orders/case numbers
✅ Proof of relationship/cohabitation (if relevant)

(For plain-English guidance, see the State Law Library’s “Getting an Order” page.) (Texas Library Guides)

Dallas-Area Survivor Resources

The George L. Allen Sr. Courts Building directory also lists the DA Protective Orders offices (Suites 460-E/F) if you’re already at 600 Commerce. (Dallas County)

Typical Timeline (Dallas)

1. File + request Ex Parte — same day where possible (through DA or clerk) (Dallas County)

2. Judge review — temporary order may issue quickly if immediate danger shown (Dallas County)

3. Service on respondent — via DA-coordinated service or constable/sheriff civil process (Dallas County)

4. Final hearing — usually within a few weeks; bring evidence/witnesses (Texas Library Guides)

5. Final order — typically up to 2 years; renew/extend if needed (Texas Library Guides)

FAQs

Is there a fee to get a protective order in Dallas County?
The DA notes there’s no charge for a protective order obtained through their office. (Dallas Police)

Do I need a police report to file?
No, but police/911 reports can strengthen your case. (Texas Library Guides)

Who serves the papers?
Service is typically arranged by the DA or performed by constables/sheriff (civil process). (Dallas County)

Where exactly do I go to file myself?
George L. Allen Sr. Courts Building, 600 Commerce St, Suite 103 (District/Family Clerk). (Dallas County)

Can the judge order firearm surrender?
Yes—Texas courts can restrict firearm possession in protective orders; details appear in the order language. See the OCA forms and DA info. (Texas Courts)

Final Safety Notes

If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. Consider using a safe device and clearing your browser history after researching. Dallas Police and the National Hotline offer planning tips and confidential support. (Dallas Police)