# How to File a Domestic Violence Restraining Order in San Diego County, California

> Filing a domestic violence restraining order in San Diego County: where to file, forms, no-fee filing, and free local help.

**Direct answer.** If you need protection from abuse by a spouse, partner, ex, or close family member, the San Diego County Superior Court can help — and there is no fee to apply. File at the Family Court location closest to you.

## Where to file in San Diego County

File your request with the clerk at the Family Court division nearest you:

Domestic violence clinics at each courthouse can help you prepare the forms, on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more on the court's domestic violence page.

E-filing is available but optional. Since July 2023, DVRO requests may be submitted electronically through one of the court's approved e-Filing Service Providers (EFSPs) — or filed in person at any Family Law Business Office. The court charges no fees to e-file a DVRO request, though your EFSP may charge its own service fee. If you e-file, include form SDSC D-049 for a new case, and note the cutoff: DVTROs filed after 4:00 p.m. are reviewed by a judicial officer the next business day.

- Central (Downtown San Diego): 1100 Union St., San Diego, CA 92101
- East County (El Cajon): 250 E. Main St., El Cajon, CA 92020
- North County (Vista): 325 S. Melrose Dr., Vista, CA 92081
- South County (Chula Vista): 500 Third Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910

## 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).
- SDSC D-049 — the court's local Family Law Certificate of Assignment – Venue Declarations form; the court says this local cover sheet is required for new cases only.
- DV-120 — the form the other party uses to respond; you'll recognize it if you're served with one.
- FW-001 — request to waive court fees if you can't afford them.

## What it costs

There is no fee to apply for a domestic violence restraining order in San Diego County, according to the court — including when you e-file. The only possible cost is a private e-filing provider's own service fee if you choose to file online.

## What happens after you file

A judge reviews your request, usually within 24 hours. 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 — plan to spend at least half a day at the courthouse.

## Local help in San Diego County

The court's domestic violence restraining order clinics help you prepare the paperwork at each courthouse. The San Diego Family Justice Center also offers help with restraining order applications plus advocacy and counseling in a safe setting (1122 Broadway, Suite 200, San Diego, CA 92101; (619) 533-6000; sandiegofjc.org). Family Law Facilitators are available at all court locations as well.

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.

## Questions people ask next

### How long does it take?

Expect at least half a day at the courthouse to file. A judge reviews your request quickly, and the hearing is usually within 21 days.

### Do I need a lawyer?

No. The court's free DV clinics and Family Law Facilitators help self-represented people every day.

### What if I can't afford the fee?

There's no fee to apply in San Diego County; the only possible cost is a private e-filing provider's service fee if you file online.

### What if I'm in danger right now?

Call 911. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 800-799-7233 — free, confidential, 24/7.

### Can I file in Spanish?

Many courts offer Spanish forms and help. Ask the DV clinic or Family Law Facilitator when you arrive.

## 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&sectionNum=6222)

## Related guides

- [How to File a Domestic Violence Restraining Order in San Bernardino County, California](https://justiceos.ai/guides/san-bernardino-county-dv-restraining-order)
- [How to File a Domestic Violence Restraining Order in San Francisco County, California](https://justiceos.ai/guides/san-francisco-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.

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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.

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