Available 24/7 • All California Counties 310-991-9179

Blog

How to Modify Cancel or Terminate a Restraining Order Early

Posted by Brian Michaels | Apr 20, 2023 | 0 Comments

In California the law allows you to apply to the court to modify, cancel or terminate your restraining order early. If you are the Petitioner and you have an Order you can cancel your order at any time. If, however, you are the restrained party the law is not as forgiving but there are ways to do it and our office can assist.

In California, a restraining order can be canceled or "dismissed" before its expiration date if the protected party or the restrained party files a motion to dismiss with the court. Both parties will have the opportunity to be heard in court, and the judge will ultimately decide whether to grant the motion.

The protected party can file a motion to dismiss the restraining order if they no longer believe they need the protection provided by the order. The restrained party can also file a motion to dismiss if they believe the restraining order is no longer necessary or if they have fulfilled the requirements of the order, such as completing a batterer's intervention program.

It's important to note that the judge may not grant the motion to dismiss if they believe there is still a risk of harm to the protected party. If the motion to dismiss is granted, the restraining order will be canceled, and both parties will be notified.

A domestic violence restraining order can be terminated or dismissed before its expiration date under certain circumstances. The party seeking to terminate the order must file a motion to dismiss with the court and provide notice to the other party. The court will then hold a hearing to consider the motion.

Under California law, a domestic violence restraining order can be terminated early if the protected party requests it, or if the court determines that there is no longer a need for the order. The court may also terminate the order if the restrained party has completed a batterer's intervention program, or if the parties have reconciled and the protected party no longer feels threatened or in danger.

However, it's important to note that the court will carefully consider the safety of the protected party before terminating a restraining order. If the court believes that the protected party is still at risk of harm, the order may not be terminated.

It's also important to remember that violating a domestic violence restraining order can result in serious consequences, including criminal charges and possible jail time. Therefore, it's crucial to follow the terms of the order until it is officially terminated by the court.

The law that applies to canceling or dismissing a restraining order early in California is California Code of Civil Procedure section 527.6. This section outlines the procedures and requirements for obtaining and modifying restraining orders in cases of harassment, domestic violence, stalking, and other similar situations.

Under section 527.6, a restraining order can be dismissed or terminated early if the court finds that there is no longer a sufficient showing of harassment or violence to justify its continuation. The party seeking dismissal must file a motion with the court, and the other party will have an opportunity to respond.

The court will consider a variety of factors in determining whether to dismiss the restraining order, including the safety of the protected party, the risk of harm to either party, and any new information or evidence that has emerged since the original order was issued. If the court grants the motion to dismiss, the restraining order will be canceled, and both parties will be notified.

It's important to note that the legal requirements and procedures for canceling a restraining order may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case

A restraining order can be modified in California if there is a change in circumstances that warrants a modification. California law allows either party to request a modification of a restraining order at any time during its duration.

To request a modification, the party seeking the change must file a motion with the court that issued the original order. The motion should state the reasons for the requested modification and the specific changes being sought. The other party will have an opportunity to respond to the motion, and the court will hold a hearing to consider the request.

The court will consider a variety of factors in deciding whether to modify the restraining order, including the safety of the protected party, any new evidence or information that has emerged since the original order was issued, and whether the requested modifications are reasonable and necessary.

a change in circumstances that may warrant a modification of a restraining order can include any new information or evidence that was not available at the time the original order was issued. Examples of changes in circumstances that may support a modification include:

  1. New evidence of harassment or abuse: If the protected party can provide new evidence that the restrained party has engaged in additional acts of harassment or abuse since the original order was issued, this may support a modification.

  2. Changes in the parties' relationship: If the parties have reconciled or otherwise changed their relationship since the original order was issued, this may warrant a modification. For example, if the parties have resumed contact and have agreed to specific terms for contact, the court may modify the restraining order accordingly.

  3. The need for additional protection: If the protected party has new concerns or fears for their safety, or if there have been threats or acts of violence by the restrained party, this may support a modification to provide additional protection.

  4. Changes in the restrained party's behavior or circumstances: If the restrained party has completed a treatment program or taken other steps to address their behavior, this may support a modification. Similarly, if the restrained party's circumstances have changed (e.g., moved to a new location), this may also warrant a modification.

Ultimately, whether a change in circumstances warrants a modification of a restraining order will depend on the specific facts of the case and the discretion of the court. It's recommended that you consult with an attorney if you believe that there has been a change in circumstances that may warrant a modification of a restraining order.

 

About the Author

Brian Michaels

Restraining Order Brian Michaels announces new business.

Comments

There are no comments for this post. Be the first and Add your Comment below.

Leave a Comment

Contact Me Today

The Law Office of Brian Michaels is committed to answering your questions about your restraining order in California.

Brian Michaels offers a free consultation and he'll gladly discuss your case with you at your convenience. Contact Brian today to schedule an appointment.

Office Locations

Century City Office
1925 Century Park East,
Suite 1700
Los Angeles, CA 90067
Newport Beach Office
260 Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
310-991-9179
San Diego Office
5755 Oberlin Drive
San Diego, CA 92121
310-991-9179
Palm Springs Office
777 E Tahquitz Way
Palm Springs, CA 92660
310-991-9179
San Francisco Office
739 Bryant Street
San Francisco, CA 94108
310-991-9179

Menu