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Legal Information: California

Litigation Abuse

Laws current as of November 7, 2024

My request was denied. What will happen next?

If the judge allows the abuser’s case to proceed, you will have up to ten days to respond after you are served with the judge’s order.1 The case that the abuser has brought against you will then proceed normally and you will be expected to participate in it.

You can read more about appealing an order if you believe the judge made an error, or you can look for a lawyer if you need advice on your options at this stage. If you are hoping to prevent the abuser from contacting you outside of court, you may also want to read about Domestic Violence Restraining Orders and Civil Harassment Orders.

1 Cal. C.C.P. § 391.7(c)

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