Stalking Restraining Orders

Certain courts in the State of Ohio have the authority to issue protection orders, commonly referred to as restraining orders.

Police departments cannot issue protection orders, but will enforce orders issued by the court pursuant Ohio Revised Code Section 2919.27 (some orders issued by courts are not enforceable by police)

In cases of Domestic Violence, and for certain specified offenses, officers may prepare a motion for the court requesting the issuance of Criminal Temporary Protection Orders or Criminal Anti-Stalking Protection Orders.

Private citizens may petition the court, on their own behalf, for issuance of a Civil Protection Order. An ex-parte hearing will be scheduled, generally the same day or on the next court day, which you must attend. You will also be required to attend a second hearing, scheduled after all parties have been notified, to determine if the civil protection order is to be issued or remain in effect.

A civil protection order may be issued by a civil court based upon a motion filed by you (the Petitioner) which alleges that another person (the Respondent) is abusing, harassing, or stalking you. If the order is granted, the court will order that person to cease the specified behavior, or be punished by the court. You can apply for a protection order at any time, even if criminal charges haven’t been filed against the person harassing you, or you have already obtained a Temporary Protection Order as part of a criminal proceeding. You may represent yourself, or choose to have a private attorney to represent you. Civil Protection Orders can last for up to five years.

If you or a family member fear for your safety because you are being threatened with harm, followed, or harassed by a person (relative or stranger), you can apply for a Civil Stalking Protection Order.

Petitions can be filed online at courtclerk.org or in person at:
Hamilton County Courthouse

Room 315
1000 Main Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202

(513) 946-5635 – Issue Desk

Further instructions are available online from the Clerk of Courts.

Domestic Violence Civil Protection Order

If you or a family member are being physically abused or threatened with harm by a family or household member (person living in your home, even if not related to you by marriage or blood) you can apply for a Domestic Violence Civil Protection Order with the Domestic Relations Court. If you and your abuser have children together, a Domestic Violence Civil Protection Order can also decide issues regarding these children – including custody, visitation, and support.

Hamilton County Domestic Relations Court is at 800 Broadway Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Their phone number is 513 946-9000.

Forms and instructions for Domestic Violence Civil Protection Orders