Restraining Orders.

Legal boundaries that protect safety, restore calm and bring balance back into everyday life.

Restraining Orders, explained.

A restraining order is a court order that sets clear legal boundaries to protect someone from violence, threats, harassment or unwanted contact. It can apply to many situations, from personal disputes to family relationships or workplace issues.

The type of order you apply for depends on your connection with the person involved. A Magistrate can make an order for up to two years, or longer if circumstances call for it. A restraining order exists to keep people safe, creates room for you to step back from conflict, rebuild calm and prevent further harm.

If circumstances shift, for example, the person complies with the order or contact becomes necessary for practical reasons – you can apply to vary or revoke it. The court will look at what’s changed since the order was made. We can help you assess whether an adjustment is appropriate and prepare the application for you.

Types of Restraining Orders.

  • Family Violence Restraining Order

    A Family Violence Restraining Order (FVRO) covers situations involving family members, intimate partners or former partners. These matters can be emotionally difficult and complex, especially when children are involved.
An FVRO can prevent contact, control certain behaviours or bar someone from attending specific places. Our lawyers approach these matters with care and discretion, balancing your safety with the need to handle family dynamics sensitively.
  • Misconduct Restraining Order

    Misconduct Restraining Order (MRO) addresses ongoing harassment, intimidation or disruptive behaviour that doesn’t involve violence or family relationships. These are often used in workplaces, strata settings or neighbourhood disputes. An MRO aims to stop behaviour that causes alarm or fear but doesn’t necessarily meet the threshold for a violent offence. We help you show the pattern of behaviour and apply for conditions that protect your peace of mind.
  • Violence Restraining Order

    A Violence Restraining Order (VRO) protects someone from acts of violence or threats by a person who isn’t a family member, such as a neighbour, colleague or acquaintance. You can apply through your local Magistrates Court by explaining what has happened and why you need protection. The more detail you provide, the easier it is for the court to understand your situation and decide whether to grant the order.

FAQs.

Common questions we hear.
  • A Violence Restraining Order (VRO) protects against non‑family violence or threats. A Family Violence Restraining Order (FVRO) applies when the parties are related, in a relationship or have children together. A Misconduct Restraining Order (MRO) covers harassment or intimidating behaviour that isn’t violent or family‑related.

  • Breaking a restraining order is a criminal offence. If the other person contacts you or breaches the order in any way, report it to WA Police as soon as possible. They can take action and lay charges if needed. We can explain what usually happens after that and what further steps you can take to stay protected.

  • Yes, once an interim order is made, WA Police will serve it on the other person. This ensures your details remain private and that service happens safely.

  • Yes. If you’re in immediate danger, contact police first. If you’re preparing an application, we can help you complete it, gather supporting evidence and guide you through what happens in court.

  • A restraining order can be made for up to two years. If you still have safety concerns as the expiry date approaches, you can apply to the court to extend it. The court will review your circumstances and decide whether continued protection is needed. The length of the order, and whether it’s renewed, depends on what the Magistrate considers necessary for your safety.

  • No. Your personal details, including your home address, are not shared with the respondent. When the order is made, WA Police serve it on your behalf so you don’t have to make any direct contact. The process is designed to keep you safe and out of confrontation.

Meet our dedicated Criminal Lawyers.

HHG Legal Group is one of Perth’s longest serving law firms, trusted in WA for over 100 years. When partnering with us, you’ll always work with a lawyer who is experienced in criminal law. This ensures you receive informed advice on all your matters.

What our clients are saying about us.

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