How to Get a Protection Order in Indiana

Information for Indiana survivors about seeking a civil protection order for domestic violence.

Civil Protection Orders for Domestic Violence in Indiana

What a Civil Protection Order Is

A civil protection order (sometimes called a protective order) in Indiana is a court order that can help set clear rules to reduce contact, harassment, or harm from a person who has been violent, threatening, or abusive.

It is a civil (non-criminal) court order. It can:

• tell the abusive person not to contact you
• set distance or “stay-away” rules
• include rules involving children, your home, or your belongings

A civil protection order is different from pressing criminal charges, but it can work alongside any criminal case that may exist.

Who Can Apply in Indiana

Indiana protection orders are usually meant for people who have experienced domestic or family violence, stalking, harassment, or certain other harmful behaviours. In simple terms, a person can often apply if the abusive person is:

• a current or former spouse or romantic partner
• someone you live with or used to live with
• a person you share a child with
• a family member or household member (including some relatives by blood, marriage, or adoption)
• a person who has stalked or harassed you, even if you are not in a close relationship

There can be specific legal rules about who qualifies, especially for certain types of orders. A local legal aid office or domestic violence program can help you check how the law applies to your situation.

Where to Get Forms and Information

In Indiana, protection order forms are usually available through:

• local trial courts or clerk of court offices
• some domestic violence shelters or advocacy organizations
• legal aid or pro bono legal services
• court or state websites that provide printable or online forms

Many areas have advocates who can:

• explain the forms in simple language
• help you think about safety planning
• go with you to court, if available

Legal aid organizations may be able to give legal information and, in some cases, representation, but availability will depend on income, location, and capacity.

How to File for a Protection Order

The exact steps can vary by county, but the overall process often includes:

• Getting the right forms for your situation
• Filling out information about what has happened and what protections you are asking for
• Filing the forms with the clerk of the appropriate court
• Asking about emergency or temporary protections, if you feel you are in immediate danger

Some courts allow filing in person only; others may have options to file online or with help from a local agency. Court clerks can often explain basic filing steps but cannot give legal advice.

Emergency or Temporary Protections

In many Indiana courts, when you file for a protection order, you can ask for an emergency or temporary order. This type of order can sometimes be granted:

• without the other person present at first (often called “ex parte”)
• based on the information you provide in your written documents, and sometimes brief questions from the judge

If granted, the temporary order usually stays in place only until the court can hold a full hearing with both sides present, or until a set date. It may include immediate rules like no-contact or stay-away provisions.

Service of the Respondent

After you file, the paperwork generally needs to be formally delivered (served) on the other person, often called the respondent. The court will usually arrange for a sheriff or other authorized person to serve the papers.

The respondent typically receives:

• a copy of your petition
• any temporary or emergency order
• notice of a court date for a hearing, if one is scheduled

The order is not fully enforceable against the respondent until proper service has happened, except in specific emergency situations. Court staff or advocates can explain how service is handled in your area.

The Court Hearing for a Longer-Term Order

If the court sets a hearing, you and the respondent will usually both have a chance to speak to the judge. At the hearing, you may:

• tell the judge, in your own words, what has happened
• offer documents, photos, or messages as evidence, if you choose and if allowed
• bring witnesses, if the court permits and it feels safe for you

The respondent may also speak or present evidence. After hearing both sides, the judge decides whether to grant a longer-term protection order, what terms it should include, and how long it will last.

Common Protections You Can Ask For

Protection orders in Indiana can include many types of conditions, depending on the circumstances and the judge’s decision. Common requests include:

• No-contact rules – no phone calls, texts, emails, messages through others, or in-person contact
• Stay-away orders – requiring the person to stay a certain distance from you, your home, workplace, or school
• Removal from the home – asking that the respondent leave a shared residence, when appropriate
• Child-related provisions – temporary rules about parenting time, exchanges, and communication related to children
• Firearms restrictions – limits on possessing or buying firearms or other weapons, under certain conditions
• Protection for pets or property – orders not to harm pets, damage property, or interfere with essential belongings

You can usually choose which protections to request on your forms. The judge then decides what to approve. It is helpful to explain clearly why each requested protection would increase your safety or stability.

How Long a Protection Order May Last

The length of a civil protection order in Indiana can vary based on the type of order, the judge’s decision, and your specific situation. Some orders last for a shorter, fixed period, while others may be in effect longer, sometimes for multiple years, with possible options to extend or renew.

If your order is close to expiring and you still have safety concerns, you may be able to request an extension. This usually must be done before the current order ends. Court staff, advocates, or legal aid can explain local procedures for renewals.

Enforcement and Violations

If the protected person believes the respondent has violated the protection order, it may be possible to report this to law enforcement. In many cases, violating a protection order can lead to criminal charges or other consequences for the respondent.

Keeping a copy of the order with you, if it is safe to do so, can make it easier to show police or other authorities. Some people choose to give copies to schools, workplaces, or child care providers, depending on what feels safe.

Getting Support While Using the Legal System

Legal systems can feel confusing or stressful. You do not have to go through the process alone. In many parts of Indiana, you may be able to find:

• Domestic violence advocates who can help with safety planning and emotional support
• Legal aid lawyers for information and, in some cases, representation in court
• Court-based assistance such as self-help centers or help desks that explain general procedures

These services are usually free or low-cost, but availability may differ between communities.

Checking the Latest Indiana Procedures

Court rules and forms can change over time, and procedures may differ from one county to another. To make sure you have the most current information:

• ask the clerk of the court where you plan to file
• visit official Indiana court or state websites for updated forms and instructions
• contact a local domestic violence program or legal aid office

They can help you confirm filing options, required documents, and what to expect in your local court.

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