Protective orders, also known as restraining orders, are taken very seriously under California law. These court orders are designed to protect individuals from harassment, abuse, threats, or unwanted contact. Violating a protective order can lead to immediate and lasting legal consequences. At the Law Office of Robert Little, we can provide legal assistance to the Rancho Cucamonga public and help individuals understand their rights and options when facing these allegations.

Understanding Protective Orders in California

A protective order is a legal directive issued by a court that restricts certain behaviors toward a protected person. Depending on the type of order, it may prohibit contact, require a specific physical distance, restrict firearm possession, or impose other conditions. Common types include domestic violence restraining orders, civil harassment orders, elder abuse orders, and criminal protective orders issued in criminal cases.

Once a protective order is served, the restrained person must follow its terms exactly. Claiming confusion or misunderstanding is rarely accepted as a valid excuse.

What Counts as a Violation?

A violation occurs when any term of the protective order is not followed. This can include contacting the protected person through calls, texts, emails, or social media, showing up at prohibited locations, or asking someone else to pass along messages. Even seemingly minor or indirect contact can be considered a violation if the order clearly forbids it.

Accidental contact or contact initiated by the protected person may still result in legal trouble, which is why strict compliance is essential.

Criminal Penalties for Violating a Protective Order

In California, violating a protective order is a criminal offense under Penal Code §273.6. A first-time violation is typically charged as a misdemeanor, which may carry penalties such as jail time, fines, probation, mandatory counseling, and additional restrictions.

If the violation involves violence, threats, or prior violations, prosecutors may pursue more severe charges. Repeat violations or cases involving injury can lead to felony charges, significantly increasing potential penalties and long-term consequences.

Additional Legal Consequences

Beyond criminal penalties, a violation can affect other areas of your life. It may influence ongoing family law matters, custody disputes, or divorce proceedings. Courts may also extend the duration of the protective order or impose stricter conditions. A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, which may impact employment, housing, and professional licensing opportunities.

What to Do If You Are Accused of a Violation

If you are accused of violating a protective order, it is important to take the matter seriously and avoid further contact with the protected person. Do not attempt to explain the situation directly to them. Instead, focus on understanding the allegations and your legal options.

An attorney can review the terms of the order, evaluate the circumstances of the alleged violation, and help you respond appropriately in court.

Legal Guidance in Rancho Cucamonga

Violating a protective order can have swift and serious consequences, even when the situation is complex or misunderstood. At the Law Office of Robert Little, we can provide legal assistance to the Rancho Cucamonga public and work to protect your rights throughout the legal process.