Restraining Orders

You can file your petition at the circuit court in the county where you live or the county where the abuser lives. You can find the forms from the civil clerk at the circuit court, but you may want to download them beforehand and fill them out at home or with an advocate from a domestic violence organization or with a lawyer. You will find links to forms online on the Oregon Download Court Forms page. To find contact information for the circuit court in your area, click on the Oregon Courthouse Locations page.

To start your case, you will need to fill out the necessary forms for a restraining order, which include a petition and an affidavit (sworn statement). On the affidavit, you will be asked to write about what happened. Remember to use specific language (slapping, hitting, grabbing, threatening, etc.) that fits your situation. Include details and dates, if possible. Note: Do not sign the forms until you have shown them to a clerk, as the court clerk may have to notarize them – and remember that you may need photo ID for the notary.

Most shelters and other domestic violence prevention organizations can provide support for you while you fill out these papers and go to court. To find a shelter or advocate in your area, go to our Oregon Advocates and Shelters page.