How to Get a Restraining Order in San Antonio?

Feeling safe is something most of us just expect, right? It’s kind of like breathing—we don’t think about it until something happens to make it hard. But when someone’s behavior leaves you feeling threatened or always looking over your shoulder, it can hit you in a way that’s hard to explain but impossible to ignore.

If you’re in a spot like that, maybe it’s time to consider a restraining order. It’s not about overreacting or making a scene. It’s about protecting yourself and finding some peace. As experienced restraining order attorneys, we get it. The idea of going through legal steps might feel overwhelming. Where do you even begin? What can you expect? Don’t worry—we can walk through it all together here. This isn’t about perfection or legal-speak. It’s just about figuring out what you need to do to stay safe. Let’s start there.

What is a restraining order?

Alright, so what exactly is a restraining order? You’ve probably heard the term before, but what does it really mean? Think of it as a legal line in the sand. It’s a way to tell someone, “Enough. Stay away,” and have the law back you up if they don’t listen. Whether it’s to stop someone from calling you, showing up uninvited, or threatening you, a restraining order puts clear boundaries in place.

And no, not every argument or unpleasant interaction is grounds for one. But if someone is making you feel genuinely unsafe? You don’t have to just sit with that. That feeling in your gut—that constant worry or fear? That matters. A restraining order is there to protect you, plain and simple.

Now, what happens if someone ignores it? Well, that’s where it gets serious. Violating a restraining order (protective order) isn’t just breaking your trust. It’s breaking the law. The police can step in, and it can lead to legal trouble for the person who’s crossing the line.

It might sound heavy, but really, it’s just a tool. A way to regain control and peace of mind when someone else’s behavior has made that difficult. Sometimes, taking that step is the best way to protect yourself.

Different types of restraining orders

Not all restraining orders are created equal. Different situations call for different kinds, and in Texas, you might look at a few, depending on what’s happening:

• Temporary Ex Parte Protective Orders: These provide immediate protection and can last up to 20 days, with possible extensions.
• Final (Permanent) Protective Orders: These can last up to two years or longer in certain cases.
• Magistrate’s Order of Emergency Protection: Often issued after an arrest, these orders typically last 31-91 days.

Not sure which one fits your situation? That’s why consulting with a restraining order attorney matters. They’ll help you make sense of the options and steer you in the right direction.

Who qualifies for a restraining order?

Here’s a question we hear all the time: “Do I even qualify for this? Can I get a restraining order?” Well, the answer depends on a few factors.

You don’t have to be a lifelong San Antonio resident to file. You qualify as long as the threatening, abusive, or harassing behavior happened here or as long as you’re a Texas resident. Seems straightforward, right?

But what matters most is the nature of the behavior. Has this person caused harm, made threats, stalked you, or been sexually aggressive? Those are all valid reasons to seek legal protection. Sometimes, though, it’s not black-and-white. Maybe you’ve thought, “Am I making this into a bigger deal than it is?” Look, if your gut says you’re unsafe, trust it. Your safety matters. Period.

A local restraining order attorney can help review your situation and figure out how to move forward.

The process of getting a restraining order

Okay, so you’ve decided this is probably the right move. What now?

Step 1: Gather evidence

This part is critical. Courts run on evidence, not just stories. Gather everything you can that shows why you need protection. Text messages, photos, medical records, police reports – all of it matters.

Step 2: File your petition

Once you have your evidence, it’s time to head to the courthouse (in San Antonio, this likely means the Bexar County Courthouse). You’ll file your petition. This document lays out the situation and asks the court for protection. Yes, it can feel overwhelming to put all of those events into an official form. But don’t overthink it. Simply lay out the truth as best you can. In doubt? That’s a perfect reason to hire a restraining order attorney for guidance.

Step 3: Temporary hearing

Next, the court might schedule a quick, temporary hearing. The judge reviews your case, and if they see it as urgent, they can issue a temporary restraining order. This step gives you that initial layer of protection while things are still being worked out.

Step 4: Final hearing

This is the longer, more in-depth hearing. Both sides present their arguments and share evidence. You can even call witnesses if that will help your case. After considering everything, the judge decides whether to issue a longer-term protective order.

And that’s it. If the judge issues the order, it becomes enforceable by law.

Step 5: Stay vigilant

Once the order is in place, keep copies with you and share relevant info with trusted people in your life. That way, everyone is clear on what the boundaries are.

What happens if it’s violated?

If someone violates the order, call the police immediately. Violations are against the law, plain and simple. Don’t try to handle the situation on your own or downplay what happened. Report it, document it, and talk to your attorney about the next steps.

Protective orders only work when they’re enforced. And in Texas, violations can lead to arrest, jail time, or other consequences for the violator.

Getting legal help

The legal world can feel like a maze. But you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Hiring a restraining order attorney can take a huge load off your shoulders. They can help with filing, evidence gathering, and making your case in court. And they understand how things work, specifically in San Antonio, which is a big win.

Take the first step toward your peace and safety

Making the call to get a restraining order is never an easy choice. It can feel intimidating, exhausting, and even a little defeating. But you’re doing this for your safety—for your peace of mind. And that matters.

At Grable Grimshaw PLLC, we understand how difficult these situations are. We pride ourselves on offering unmatched focus, integrity, and support for our clients. Whether you’re unsure how to start or need help navigating the next step, we’re here. Contact us today for a consultation.