A Temporary Protective Order (TPO) in Oklahoma is an emergency court order designed to provide fast protection to individuals facing immediate threats of violence, harassment, stalking, or abuse. It serves as a short-term measure until the court can hold a full hearing to decide whether a longer-term order is needed.
Why Do Courts Issue Temporary Protective Orders?
TPOs are a type of protective order and exist to offer immediate safety when someone is in danger. They can prevent:
- Physical harm or threats of violence.
- Harassment or stalking.
- Contact from an abuser or someone making credible threats.
The goal is to create a safe space for the person seeking protection while giving the court time to review the situation in more detail.
How Long Does an Order Last?
A TPO typically lasts until the court holds a protective order hearing, which is usually within 14 to 20 days. At this hearing, both parties can present evidence and testimony. After reviewing the facts, the judge may:
- Issue a Final Protective Order.
- Dismiss the temporary order.
- Extend temporary protection if necessary.
What Does a Temporary Protective Order Do?
Depending on the circumstances, a TPO can:
- Stop the respondent (the person named in the order) from contacting or approaching the petitioner (the person seeking protection).
- Prohibit the respondent from going to certain locations like the petitioner’s home, workplace, or school.
- Grant temporary child custody if children are at risk.
- Remove the respondent from a shared residence.
Violating a TPO is a criminal offense in Oklahoma and can result in arrest and additional charges.
How Do You Get One?
If you’re needing to get a TPO, there’s a process for you to follow:
- File a Petition – You file the request with the district court in your county or where the incident occurred. Court clerks can provide forms and explain the process.
- Judge Review – A judge reviews your petition and may issue the TPO without hearing from the other party if immediate danger is present.
- Service of the Order – Law enforcement serves the order on the respondent, officially notifying them of the restrictions.
- Attend the Hearing – You must attend the scheduled hearing where the judge decides whether to make the order permanent.
While you can request a TPO without a lawyer, having legal representation can be helpful—especially if you expect the other party to challenge the order or if child custody issues are involved.
Tulsa Protective Order Attorneys
A Temporary Protective Order is an important tool for immediate safety in Oklahoma. It provides short-term protection until the court has time to fully evaluate the situation and decide on a long-term solution. Call our team at Tulsa Criminal Lawyers Law Firm at (918) 416-0358 or contact us online for a free consultation.