In order to protect an individual or family from harm, the Court may impose a Protective Order. Commonly called a restraining order, a restraining order instructs a person to stay away from a place such as a residence, workplace, or individual. A temporary protective order will last for 30 days once it has been served, or you can apply for an extended protective order once a temporary one has already been served – it can last for up to one year. Protective orders will differ depending on the state they are in. Generally, they are granted by Family Courts when domestic violence has been proven to exist, which allows a partner or their minor children to be kept away from harm. On the other hand, restraining orders through Justice Courts can be sought in cases where a person is being subjected to intimidating behavior such as stalking or harassment from someone with whom they do not have a domestic connection.