# How to File a Domestic Violence Restraining Order in Orange County, California > Step-by-step guide to filing a domestic violence restraining order in Orange County: where to file, the forms, fees, and local help. **Direct answer.** This guide is for anyone in Orange County who needs a court order for protection from domestic violence. It explains where to file, which forms you need, and a free in-courthouse program that can help you complete the paperwork — all in plain language. ## Where to file in Orange County Domestic violence restraining orders are filed with the Superior Court of California, County of Orange at: Lamoreaux Justice Center — Family Law Clerk's Office, 7th Floor 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868 Clerk's office hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Per the court, if you file completed papers before 2:00 p.m., you can ask for a temporary restraining order the same day. The court lists filing options as in person or electronic — confirm current e-filing instructions on the court's official site. Court site: occourts.org ## The forms you'll need - 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-120 — the form the other party uses to respond (worth recognizing if you receive one). - FW-001 — request to waive court fees if you can't afford them. ## What it costs There is no filing fee for a domestic violence restraining order under California law. If other court fees come up that you can't afford, file FW-001 to ask the court to waive them. ## What happens after you file A judge reviews your request, usually within 24 hours — and in Orange County, a same-day temporary order is possible if you file before 2:00 p.m. If a temporary order is granted, a hearing is typically scheduled within 21 days. The other party must be legally served with the papers. Bring your forms and any evidence to the hearing. ## Local help in Orange County JusticeOS is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. This guide is general information, not legal advice. If you are unsure about your situation, talk to a licensed California attorney or your court's self-help center. - Domestic Violence Assistance Program — 7th Floor, Room 705, Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange. Free help with forms and procedures, Monday–Friday 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (closed 12:00–12:30 p.m.); phone (714) 935-7956. Arrive by 8:30 a.m. if you want a same-day temporary order. - Self-Help Centers — located at several justice centers countywide for document review before filing. Details: occourts.org/self-help ## Questions people ask next ### How long does it take? A judge usually reviews your request within 24 hours; in Orange County, filing before 2:00 p.m. can result in a same-day temporary order. A hearing is typically set within 21 days. ### Do I need a lawyer? No. The Domestic Violence Assistance Program at the Lamoreaux Justice Center helps people complete the forms for free. ### What if I can't afford the fee? There is no fee to file a domestic violence restraining order. For any other court fees, include form FW-001 with your filing to request that the judge waive them. ### What if I'm in danger right now? Call 911. The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 is also available 24/7, free and confidential. ### Can I file in Spanish? Yes. The restraining-order forms are published in Spanish, and the court provides bilingual assistance — ask the Domestic Violence Assistance Program or a self-help center. ## Official sources - [California Courts — Restraining orders (self-help)](https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/DV-restraining-order) - [California Family Code § 6222 — no fee to ask for a domestic violence restraining order](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=FAM§ionNum=6222) ## Related guides - [How to File a Domestic Violence Restraining Order in Nevada County, California](https://justiceos.ai/guides/nevada-county-dv-restraining-order) - [How to File a Domestic Violence Restraining Order in Placer County, California](https://justiceos.ai/guides/placer-county-dv-restraining-order) - [How California DVRO filing works after you finish the forms](https://justiceos.ai/guides/dvro-filing) Published 2026-09-28. Reviewed against official California Courts guidance on 2026-09-28. --- JusticeOS is not a law firm, is not your lawyer, and does not give legal advice. It explains California court forms and procedure in plain language and cites official sources. In immediate danger call 911. National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233. Canonical HTML: https://justiceos.ai/guides/orange-county-dv-restraining-order