Dealing with someone who threatens your safety or harasses you can be stressful and frightening. Fortunately, Arizona law provides legal tools to help protect you — and in Pima County, there are specific procedures and resources designed to make the process as clear and accessible as possible.
What Is a Restraining Order (Order of Protection)?
In Pima County, what many people call a restraining order is officially known as an Order of Protection. It is a court-issued legal document that prohibits another person from committing acts of domestic violence against you. An Order of Protection can help prevent threats, harassment, or violence by limiting or prohibiting contact and establishing legally enforceable boundaries.
To qualify for an Order of Protection in Pima County, you must typically have a close relationship with the person you want protected against, such as:
- Current or former spouses
- People who have lived in the same household
- People with whom you share a child
- Relatives by blood or marriage
- Current or former romantic or sexual partners
You must also allege that the person committed at least one act of domestic violence against you in the past year. An act of domestic violence is defined by Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-3601.
What Can an Order of Protection Do?
When issued, an Order of Protection can:
- Require the other person not to contact you in person, by phone, email, or social media
- Order the person to stay a certain distance away from your home, workplace, or other specified locations
- Prevent harassment, threats, or abusive conduct
Each order is tailored to the specific circumstances and can provide a powerful tool for safety and legal enforcement.
Types of Protection Orders in Pima County
Order of Protection
An Order of Protection is used to prevent domestic violence. It can be issued on an emergency basis or after a court hearing. Once served, it is generally in effect for 2 years.
Injunction Against Harassment
If the conduct does not rise to domestic violence but still involves repeated harassment or alarming behavior OR you don’t meet the relationship requirements for an Order of Protection, then you can file an Injunction Against Harassment through local courts. Both types of orders can be filed using the Arizona Protective Order Initiation and Notification Tool (AZPOINT) — an online resource that allows you to begin the process electronically and receive a confirmation number to submit to the court.
When Should You Consider Getting One?
You might consider filing for an Order of Protection if you are:
- Experiencing domestic violence or credible threats from a partner or family member
- Being stalked or persistently harassed
- Feeling unsafe in your home or daily life
These orders not only provide legal boundaries but also give law enforcement grounds to intervene if the terms are violated.
How to Get a Restraining Order in Pima County
Step 1: Start Your Petition
You can begin your application online using AZPOINT, which guides you through the required information.
Step 2: File With the Court
After you receive a confirmation number from AZPOINT, you can file your petition in person or remotely during normal court hours (typically Monday–Friday). Courts in Pima County that handle these petitions include:
- Pima County Superior Court – Civil Division (110 W. Congress, 1st Floor, Tucson)
- Pima County Consolidated Justice Court (240 N. Stone Ave., Tucson)
- Tucson City Court (103 E. Alameda Street, Tucson)
- Pima County Juvenile Court (2225 E. Ajo Way, Tucson)
It’s important to file in the proper court based on your circumstances; for example, if you have a related ongoing Superior Court case (e.g., divorce or custody), then that court may be appropriate.
When Should You Consider Getting One?
You might consider filing for an Order of Protection if you are:
- Experiencing domestic violence or credible threats from a partner or family member
- Being stalked or persistently harassed
- Feeling unsafe in your home or daily life
These orders not only provide legal boundaries but also give law enforcement grounds to intervene if the terms are violated.
How to Get a Restraining Order in Pima County
Step 3: Emergency Orders
If you need protection after court hours, weekends, or holidays, you can contact:
- Tucson Police Department – (520) 791-4444
- Pima County Sheriff’s Department – (520) 351-4900 Or call 911 in immediate emergencies.
After the Order Is Granted
Once your Order of Protection is granted and served:
- Keep a copy of the order with you at all times.
- Law enforcement can enforce the order if it is violated.
- The respondent may request a hearing to contest or modify the order — in that case, the court will notify all parties and the hearing will be set within ten (10) court days.
There is no fee to file an Order of Protection in Pima County, and in many cases, law enforcement serves the order at no charge.
At the hearing, you will be required to prove the allegations in your Petition, and the Court will be deciding whether or not to affirm your Order of Protection. It is important to note that, at hearing, you will only be allowed to present evidence on those allegations listed in your Petition, so it is important to list any incidents within the last year in your Petition.
Final Thoughts
An Order of Protection is a serious legal tool, but for many people in Pima County, it can be a crucial step toward safety and peace of mind. Knowing how to begin the process, where to file, and what to expect can help you take action when you feel unsafe. If you are in danger or unsure how to proceed, don’t delay — contact local authorities or consult with a qualified attorney who can guide you through the Pima County process with your safety as the priority.
If you have any questions, or if you need help either filing or defending yourself against a Petition for Order of Protection, our professionals at Rolfe Family Law can help. Just call 520-209-2550 to schedule your consultation.