File a Non-Family Protective Order
In PersonProtective Orders are legal documents issued by a judge or magistrate to protect the health and safety of a person who is alleged to be a victim of any act involving violence, force or threat that results in bodily injury or places that person in fear of death, sexual assault or bodily injury.
In Virginia, there are 3 kinds of Protective Orders that can protect you and others in your family or home:
- Emergency Protective Order (expires at the end of the third day following issuance or the next day court is in session, whichever is later)
- Preliminary Protective Order (lasts 15 days or until a full hearing)
- Protective Order (may last up to 2 years)
Protective Orders are handled on a walk in basis Monday thru Friday.
Monday thru Thursday, petitions must be filed no later than 11:00am in order to be heard on the 1:30pm protective order docket the same day.
On Friday, petitions must be filed no later than 10:00am in order to be heard on the 11:00am protective order docket the same day.
All family and domestic protective orders are filed in Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.
If you have any questions about filing a non-family protective order, call 804-501-4723.
