DV-110 – Temporary Restraining Order (CLETS—TRO) (Domestic Violence Prevention)

Jurisdiction: Country: United States | Province or State: California

The DV-110 – Temporary Restraining Order (CLETS—TRO) (Domestic Violence Prevention) is a court order issued by a judge to provide short-term protection in domestic violence cases. It is part of the restraining order process in California and is commonly used when someone needs immediate protection before a full court hearing can take place.

If you are filling out restraining order paperwork, this document is not something you draft yourself. Instead, it is the order the judge signs after reviewing your request. Once signed, it tells the restrained person what they must and must not do.

This form matters because it creates enforceable rules. Law enforcement officers rely on it to understand what protections are in place. It can restrict contact, require someone to move out, and address issues involving children, property, or pets.

You may be reviewing this form before filing your request, or after receiving a signed copy from the court. Either way, understanding what it says and how it works helps you know what protections are in effect and what the next steps look like.

What is DV-110 – Temporary Restraining Order (CLETS—TRO) (Domestic Violence Prevention)?

Clear definition

The DV-110 – Temporary Restraining Order (CLETS—TRO) (Domestic Violence Prevention) is a temporary court order issued in a domestic violence case. “TRO” stands for Temporary Restraining Order. “CLETS” refers to the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System, which allows law enforcement to see and enforce the order statewide.

This document sets out specific restrictions on the person who is restrained. It can order them to stop contacting you, stay away from certain places, and avoid certain behaviors. It may also include temporary custody and visitation orders, child support, spousal support, and control of shared property.

The order is temporary because it lasts only until the court holds a hearing. At that hearing, a judge decides whether to issue a longer-term restraining order.

Who typically uses this form?

This form is used in cases involving people who have a close relationship. That often includes current or former spouses, dating partners, co-parents, family members, or people who live together or used to live together.

The person asking for protection is called the “protected person.” The person who is being restrained is called the “restrained person.” The judge signs the form after reviewing the request filed by the protected person.

Self-represented individuals frequently encounter this form because many people file for domestic violence restraining orders without a lawyer. Law enforcement officers also rely on it to understand the scope of the court’s instructions.

Why might you need this form?

You may need this form if you are seeking immediate protection from abuse, threats, stalking, harassment, or violence by someone with whom you have a qualifying relationship. A temporary order can create clear, enforceable boundaries while you wait for a court hearing.

The form can also address urgent living arrangements. For example, it may require the restrained person to move out of a shared home. It can protect children by setting temporary custody and visitation rules.

If firearms are involved, the order may require the restrained person to surrender them. This can be important for immediate safety concerns.

Even though it is temporary, the protections in this order are enforceable as soon as it is properly served. That makes it a critical part of the domestic violence prevention process.

Typical real-life scenarios

• You and your former partner recently separated. After the separation, they began sending repeated threatening messages and showing up at your workplace. You file for a restraining order. The judge reviews your request and issues a temporary order prohibiting contact and requiring them to stay away from your home and job.
• You live with a spouse who has been physically abusive. You ask the court for protection and request that they move out of the shared residence. The temporary order includes a move-out provision and orders no contact except as related to children.
• You share children with someone who has made credible threats. The judge issues a temporary order that sets temporary custody with you and restricts the other parent’s visitation until the hearing.
• A family member who lives in your household has been harassing and threatening you. You request protection. The temporary order prohibits harassment and requires the person to stay a certain distance away from you and your home.
• In each of these situations, the temporary order creates immediate rules that law enforcement can enforce.

When would you use DV-110 – Temporary Restraining Order (CLETS—TRO) (Domestic Violence Prevention)?

You encounter this form after filing a request for a domestic violence restraining order. Once you submit your initial request and supporting declarations, a judge reviews your paperwork. If the judge decides that temporary protection is appropriate, they issue this order.

You would use it during the period between filing your request and attending your court hearing. That period often lasts a few weeks. The order remains in effect until the hearing date listed in the document, unless the court changes it earlier.

The protected person uses this form to understand what protections are in place. It explains the specific orders the judge granted and any requests that were denied. It also includes the hearing date, time, and department.

The restrained person uses it to understand what conduct is prohibited. It sets out detailed restrictions and may include warnings about firearms and criminal penalties for violations.

Law enforcement uses this form to enforce the order in real time. Because it is entered into a statewide system, officers across California can confirm its terms during a traffic stop, domestic disturbance call, or other encounter.

Legal characteristics of DV-110 – Temporary Restraining Order (CLETS—TRO) (Domestic Violence Prevention)

This document becomes effective once a judge signs it and it is properly served on the restrained person. Service usually means formal delivery of the paperwork according to court rules. Without proper service, enforcement can be delayed or complicated.

The order is specific. It lists names, addresses, and identifying details. It clearly describes the prohibited behavior and required distances. Vague or incomplete information in the original request can result in limited or unclear protections in the signed order.

Common problems include incorrectly identifying information, missing attachments, or failing to request certain protections in the initial filing. If a request is not clearly stated, the judge may not include it in the temporary order.

Although this is a standardized California form, local court practices may differ slightly in scheduling hearings or processing paperwork. The core legal effect of the order, however, is consistent across the state because it is entered into a statewide law enforcement system.

This form does not decide the case permanently. It does not create a final custody determination or long-term support order. Those issues are addressed at the hearing or in later court proceedings.

It also does not automatically resolve related matters such as divorce, property division, or criminal charges. It focuses on immediate safety and temporary arrangements.

Is it legally binding?

Yes. Once signed by a judge and properly served, the order is legally binding on the restrained person. Violating its terms can lead to arrest, criminal charges, or other penalties.

The restrained person must follow every checked and completed provision in the order. That includes no-contact provisions, stay-away distances, move-out orders, and firearm restrictions. Even indirect contact, such as messages sent through friends, can fall within the scope of the order if the form prohibits it.

For the protected person, the order creates enforceable rights. If the restrained person violates the order, law enforcement may take action based on the terms written in the document.

The order remains binding until the hearing date listed in the form, unless the court changes or ends it earlier. At the hearing, the judge decides whether to issue a longer-term restraining order.

How to fill out DV-110 – Temporary Restraining Order (CLETS—TRO) (Domestic Violence Prevention)

Step 1 – Review the Case Information at the Top of the Form

At the top of the form, check the court name, address, and case number. Make sure your name and the restrained person’s name are spelled correctly. Confirm that the hearing date, time, and department are listed. These details connect the order to your case and tell you when to appear in court.

Step 2 – Identify the Protected and Restrained Persons

Read the section that identifies who is protected and who is restrained. Confirm that all protected persons are listed, including children or other household members if applicable. Make sure identifying details such as age or relationship are accurate, because law enforcement relies on this information.

Step 3 – Review Personal Conduct Orders

Look at the section describing prohibited behavior. This often includes orders not to harass, threaten, assault, stalk, or disturb the peace of the protected person. Check which boxes are marked and read each checked provision carefully. These define the restrained person’s behavioral limits.

Step 4 – Review Stay-Away Orders

Find the section that lists required distances. It may state that the restrained person must stay a certain number of yards away from you, your home, your workplace, your vehicle, or your children’s school. Confirm that the locations are clearly described and that the distances are specified.

Step 5 – Check Move-Out Orders

If you requested that the restrained person move out of a shared residence, review this section to see whether the judge granted that request. The order should list the address and state who has temporary control of the property. This affects who may legally remain in the home during the temporary period.

Step 6 – Review Child Custody and Visitation Orders

If children are involved, read the custody and visitation section carefully. It may grant temporary sole custody to one parent and outline visitation rules for the other. It can also include supervised visitation or restrictions on travel. These terms control parenting arrangements until the hearing.

Step 7 – Examine Support Orders

Some temporary orders include child support or spousal support provisions. If this section is completed, review the amounts and payment terms. These are temporary financial arrangements that remain in place until changed by the court.

Step 8 – Review Firearms and Ammunition Provisions

The order often includes a requirement that the restrained person surrender firearms and ammunition. Read this section to understand what is required and the timeline stated in the order. Firearm restrictions are commonly enforced strictly and may involve proof of compliance.

Step 9 – Confirm Service Requirements

Near the end of the form, review the instructions about service. The order must be formally delivered to the restrained person before it can be enforced. Check whether the form indicates that service is required and whether a proof of service must be filed with the court.

Step 10 – Check the Judge’s Signature and Date

At the bottom of the document, confirm that a judge has signed and dated the order. Without a signature, the form is not a valid court order. The date also tells you when the temporary protections began.

Step 11 – Keep and Distribute Copies

After reviewing the completed order, ensure that copies are available for practical use. Protected persons often keep a copy with them and provide copies to schools, workplaces, or childcare providers if those locations are listed in the stay-away provisions. Clear copies help others understand and follow the terms of the order.

Legal terms you might encounter in DV-110 – Temporary Restraining Order (CLETS—TRO) (Domestic Violence Prevention)

1. Protected Person: This is the person the court is protecting. Your name appears here if you requested protection. The orders listed in the document are designed to keep this person safe from the restrained person’s actions.
2. Restrained Person: This is the individual the court orders to follow specific restrictions. Their full legal name, date of birth, and identifying details are listed so law enforcement can correctly identify them. The restrictions in the order apply only to this person.
3. Personal Conduct Orders: These are rules that limit behavior. They typically prohibit harassment, threats, stalking, assault, or contact. On this form, you will see checkboxes showing exactly what conduct is forbidden.
4. Stay-Away Order: This part sets physical distance requirements. It may require the restrained person to stay a certain number of yards away from you, your home, workplace, vehicle, or school. The distances are clearly written and enforceable.
5. Move-Out Order: This order requires the restrained person to leave a shared residence. The address of the property is listed. If granted, it gives the protected person temporary exclusive use of the home.
6. CLETS: This stands for California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System. When this order is issued, it is entered into this statewide system. That allows police officers to see and enforce it immediately.
7. Firearms Surrender: This provision requires the restrained person to give up any guns or ammunition they own or control. The form explains the deadline for surrender and may require proof that firearms were turned in, sold, or stored legally.
8. Child Custody and Visitation Orders: If children are involved, the judge may include temporary custody or visitation terms. These orders override informal agreements while the temporary order is in effect.
9. Proof of Service: This is written confirmation that the restrained person was officially given a copy of the order. Without proper service, enforcement can be delayed or complicated.
10. Expiration Date: Temporary restraining orders do not last forever. The document lists a court hearing date and typically remains in effect until that hearing. The expiration information is printed near the top of the order.

FAQs

When does this document become effective?

It becomes effective once a judge signs it. You can confirm this by checking the judge’s signature and the date on the first page. It does not require the restrained person’s agreement to take effect.

Do I need to serve the restrained person with DV-110 – Temporary Restraining Order (CLETS—TRO) (Domestic Violence Prevention)?

Yes. The restrained person must be formally served with a filed copy of the signed order. You must make sure service is completed correctly and that proof of service is filed so enforcement is clear and documented.

What if the restrained person was not at the court hearing when it was issued?

This document can be issued without the restrained person present. That is why service is critical. You need to confirm that they receive a complete copy so the restrictions are enforceable.

How do I know what locations are protected under this order?

Look at the stay-away section. It lists each protected address or place, such as home, work, school, or childcare. Make sure every location you want covered is specifically written in the order.

What happens if there is a mistake in a name or date of birth?

Even small errors can cause enforcement problems. Check the spelling of names and identifying details carefully. If something is wrong, you may need to request a correction so law enforcement can rely on accurate information.

Is this form automatically entered into the police system?

Yes. Once signed, it is entered into the statewide law enforcement system. You should still carry a copy in case an officer needs to review the specific terms quickly.

Does this order change existing custody arrangements?

If the judge included custody or visitation terms in this document, those terms control while the order is active. Review the custody section closely to understand what is permitted and what is restricted.

What should I bring to the hearing listed on this form?

Bring a copy of the signed order, proof of service, and any evidence that supports continuing protection. The hearing date is printed near the top, and that date determines whether longer-term orders may be issued.

Checklist: Before, During, and After DV-110 – Temporary Restraining Order (CLETS—TRO) (Domestic Violence Prevention)

Before

• Review every page to understand each restriction listed.
• Confirm that your name and the restrained person’s name are spelled correctly.
• Check that all protected addresses are included.
• Make copies of the signed order.
• Arrange for proper service on the restrained person.
• Gather any evidence you may need for the upcoming hearing.
• Note the expiration date and hearing date.

During

• Keep a copy of the order with you at all times.
• Provide copies to your child’s school or childcare provider if relevant.
• Inform trusted individuals about the restrictions.
• Document any violations with dates, times, and details.
• Call law enforcement if the order is violated.
• Follow any custody or visitation terms exactly as written.

After

• File proof of service with the court.
• Prepare for the scheduled hearing.
• Organize evidence of any violations.
• Update your personal records to reflect custody or address changes.
• Replace worn or lost copies of the order.
• Monitor the expiration date to avoid gaps in protection.
• Follow up on firearm surrender compliance if applicable.

Common mistakes to avoid with DV-110 – Temporary Restraining Order (CLETS—TRO) (Domestic Violence Prevention)

• Mistake: Assuming the order is enforceable before a judge signs it, which happens because people confuse filing with approval; this can leave you unprotected, so do not forget to confirm the judge’s signature and date.
• Mistake: Failing to complete proper service, often because you think the restrained person already knows about it; this can delay enforcement, so do not forget to file proof of service.
• Mistake: Overlooking small errors in names or addresses, which happens when forms are reviewed quickly; incorrect details can prevent police from enforcing it, so do not forget to double-check all identifying information.
• Mistake: Not reading the custody section carefully, which occurs when focus is only on stay-away terms; misunderstandings can lead to accidental violations, so do not forget to review parenting provisions line by line.
• Mistake: Forgetting to note the hearing date, which happens during stressful situations; missing the hearing can result in the order expiring, so do not forget to calendar the date immediately.
• Mistake: Believing verbal agreements override the written order, which happens when communication resumes; ignoring written restrictions can create legal problems, so do not forget that only written court orders control.
• Mistake: Not carrying a copy of the order, which happens when you assume it is always accessible electronically; this can slow enforcement during emergencies, so do not forget to keep a copy with you.
• Mistake: Ignoring firearm surrender provisions, often because the restrained person claims compliance; failure to follow these rules can create safety risks, so do not forget to verify deadlines and required proof.

What to do after filling out DV-110 – Temporary Restraining Order (CLETS—TRO) (Domestic Violence Prevention)

Once the judge signs the order, your focus shifts from paperwork to protection and preparation. This document only works if you take practical steps to enforce and maintain it.

Start by reviewing the signed version carefully. Make sure all pages are included. Confirm that the hearing date and expiration details are visible and readable.

• Step 1: Make at least three copies of the signed order.
• Step 2: Arrange for proper personal service on the restrained person through an eligible adult who is not you.
• Step 3: File the completed proof of service with the court clerk.
• Step 4: Keep one copy with you at all times, including when you travel locally.
• Step 5: Provide copies to your workplace, your child’s school, or building security if the stay-away terms include those locations.
• Step 6: Store a digital copy in a secure location for backup access.
• Step 7: Document any violations immediately with dates, times, screenshots, or witness names.
• Step 8: Contact law enforcement if a violation occurs and provide a copy of the order.
• Step 9: Prepare for the scheduled hearing by organizing evidence and reviewing what protections you want extended.
• Step 10: Update personal records or safety plans based on custody, residence, or contact limits listed in the order.

You should also create a simple tracking system. Mark the hearing date on your calendar with reminders one week and one day before. Keep all court-related paperwork in one folder. If anything changes, such as your address, make sure court records remain accurate.

Most importantly, treat the order as an active legal document. Follow it exactly as written. Keep it accessible. Prepare early for the next court date so there is no gap in protection.