Quick answer
Step-by-step guide to filing a domestic violence restraining order in Mono County: where to file, the forms, fees, and local help. File with the Superior Court of California, County of Mono. The court has two branches:
Filing in Mono County
How to File a Domestic Violence Restraining Order in Mono County, California
Step-by-step guide to filing a domestic violence restraining order in Mono County: where to file, the forms, fees, and local help.
Direct answer
A domestic violence restraining order can order an abuser to stay away, stop contacting you, and stay out of your home. If you're in Mono County and need that protection, this guide explains exactly where to go and what to do.
Where to file in Mono County
File with the Superior Court of California, County of Mono. The court has two branches:
Mammoth Lakes Courthouse 100 Thompson Way, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
Bridgeport Courthouse 278 Main St., Bridgeport, CA 93517
Both locations are listed on the court's official site: mono.courts.ca.gov
The forms you'll need
There is no court filing fee for a domestic violence restraining order, not to request one, respond to one, or enforce one (Cal. Rules of Court; statewide civil fee schedule). Form FW-001 (fee waiver) is only relevant if you are making a separate, fee-bearing filing.
- DV-100: the request for the restraining order itself; describes what happened and what protection you need.
- DV-109: notice of the court hearing date.
- DV-110: the temporary restraining order a judge can grant before the hearing.
- CLETS-001: confidential information for law enforcement (kept private from the other party).
- DV-105: if the case involves minor children, request custody and visitation orders on this form (file it with the initial packet when children are involved).
- DV-120: the form the other party uses to respond (good to recognize if you're served with one).
What it costs
Filing a domestic violence restraining order is free: no court filing fee applies.
What happens after you file
Under Fam. Code § 6326, a judge issues or denies an ex parte request the same court day it is submitted, or the next court day if filed too late for review that day. If a temporary order is granted or denied, the hearing date is on the stamped DV-109 (Fam. Code § 242). The other party must be legally served with the papers. Bring your forms and any evidence to the hearing.
Local help in Mono County
- Free civil and family-law assistance: the court contracts with an attorney to provide free help completing forms and understanding procedure (appointment only): email flf@mono.courts.ca.gov or call (760) 923-2314. Spanish-language assistance is also advertised on the court's site; confirm the current Spanish contact and hours on the court's official site before calling. Details: mono.courts.ca.gov
Questions people ask next
How long does it take?
Under Fam. Code § 6326, a judge issues or denies an ex parte request the same court day or the next court day if filed too late for review that day. If a temporary order is issued, expect a hearing within about 21 days. The hearing date is on the stamped DV-109.
Do I need a lawyer?
No. The court offers free help with forms and procedure, and many people file without an attorney.
What if I can't afford the filing fee?
There is no filing fee for a domestic violence restraining order, so no waiver is needed for the DVRO itself.
What if I'm in danger right now?
Call 911 immediately. The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 is free, confidential, and open 24/7.
Can I file in Spanish?
Judicial Council DVRO forms are available in Spanish translations. If you need help in another language, contact the court's assistance program before filing to confirm what filing and language options are available.
Official sources
Open the current source before acting. Court forms and county procedures can change.
Ready for the document step?
Use the guide to understand the process, then review every field before a packet leaves your hands.