If someone has petitioned the court to issue a protective order (also called a restraining order) against you, it’s natural and understandable to feel dismayed and concerned about how this incident will affect your future. First, it’s important to recognize that restraining orders are different from no-contact orders—restraining orders are handled by Washington civil courts, while protection orders/no-contact orders can be tools used in criminal proceedings to prevent the defendant from contacting a vulnerable individual (usually the alleged victim and their family members). Even though being named in a restraining order has nothing to do with any criminal charges against you, the consequences can be considerable and lasting. If you are interested in how to remove a restraining order from your record, or if you have any questions about restraining orders and the legal process that accompanies them, consider enlisting the help of a knowledgeable and experienced Camas attorney who can provide you with the personalized legal guidance you need to make informed decisions about your future.
Does a Restraining Order Go On Your Record in Washington?
If the civil court issues a restraining order against you, such as a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO), Stalking Protection Order (SPO), Antiharassment Protection Order (APO), or another type of order, this becomes a matter of public record. This means that background checks will be able to see the restraining order on your record, which can cause problems for potential employers or limit your housing options. Moreover, it’s essential to understand that violating any of the terms of the protection order while it is in effect may subject you to legal penalties, such as attending mandatory treatment or counseling, paying fines, or even serving time in jail. Even if you disagree with the restraining order, it’s best to abide by the terms as you explore your options for petitioning the court to modify or terminate the order.
How Long Does a Restraining Order Stay on Your Record?
When the court issues a protective order, it usually includes a date on which the order expires. The petitioner may file a motion to renew the order within the 90 days leading up to the expiration date. As the respondent, you will want to know how long the restraining order will remain on your public record. In Washington, restraining orders usually appear on your record for three to five years. However, the court may issue an order to have it removed from your record sooner if requested. If you know that the restraining order has expired and it still appears in public records, you have the right to contact the court clerk who issued the original protective order and request that it be removed from your record. In cases where the restraining order is in effect permanently, you can expect it to become a part of your record indefinitely. Keep in mind that even after the removal of the order from the public record occurs, some information may remain accessible through background checks.
Learn More About Your Legal Rights and Options Today
Whether you have just been named as the respondent in a restraining order petition or you want to learn more about how to remove a restraining order from your record, enlisting the support of a highly qualified and trusted Camas lawyer is highly recommended. Your attorney can answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you identify the most strategic path forward to obtain a fair and favorable outcome.
If you have questions about restraining orders or you are seeking to have the court remove an expired restraining order from your record, reach out to The Vern McCray Law Firm, PLLC, today at (360) 834-6262 to discuss your case with a dedicated and caring Camas, Washington attorney.
