(FAPAs)

In Oregon, restraining orders are granted pursuant to the Family Abuse Prevention Act, or FAPA.  Under FAPA, spouses, former spouses, adults related by blood, adoption or marriage, and persons who have been involved in a sexually intimate relationship may petition the court under certain specific circumstances for a domestic abuse restraining order.  

Petitions for a physical restraining order, or FAPA, are reviewed usually by Victims Assistance counselors at the courthouse and you will be required to appear before a judge to obtain the actual order.   The Petitioner appears alone before the court, and is often asked to elaborate upon the contents of the petition.  Once served with the restraining order, the Respondent has a right to contest it, which the court determines by means of a hearing that is set within a specified period.

Restraining orders shall not be used in lieu of a motion for parenting time and should be taken seriously as they can affect future custody rights or a party’s current or future employment. We are available to help you obtain a restraining order or, if needed, to defend against an unjustified FAPA.