Domestic Violence in Washington and Oregon

Legal Protection and Guidance for Survivors and Families

Reviewed on 3/2/26 by Morgan Madison, J.D., Senior Attorney. 

Domestic violence has serious and lasting effects on survivors and families. Courts provide legal remedies, including protection orders, to help safeguard adults and children from abuse, threats, harassment, and intimidation. These tools can prevent contact with an abuser, restrict their movements, protect custody arrangements, and help clients divorce an abusive spouse. 

If you or your children are at risk, an attorney experienced in family law and protection orders can guide you through the process of securing safety and stability. 

What Is a Domestic Violence Protection Order? 

A Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) is a civil court order designed to protect survivors of abuse, by limiting an abuser’s ability to contact or engage with the survivor. It can include provisions such as: 

• Prohibiting contact through calls, texts, social media, or in person 
• Requiring the abuser to stay away from a survivor’s home, work, or school 
• Granting temporary custody and visitation rules for children 
• Restricting firearm possession 
• Requiring counseling or treatment programs 

Temporary orders can be issued quickly in emergency situations. Longer-term protection orders may be issued following a court hearing, during which both sides can present evidence. 

The Process of Obtaining a Protection Order

1.  Filing a Petition: The survivor files a petition with the court detailing incidents of abuse. 
2. Temporary Order: In urgent cases, a temporary DVPO may be granted immediately. 
3. Service of the Order: Law enforcement serves the responding party, making it enforceable. 
4. Hearing: A judge considers testimony and evidence before issuing a longer-term order. 
5. Duration and Renewal: Most orders last one year, but survivors may request renewal if threats continue. 

Violating a DVPO can result in arrest, criminal charges, and additional court penalties.

How We Help 

Our priority is your safety and well-being. McKinley Irvin attorneys have been helping survivors of domestic violence for more than 30 years. 

We provide: 

• Guidance on your legal options and rights 
• Preparation and filing of petitions 
• Representation at hearings 
• Coordination with law enforcement for service and enforcement 
• Advice on renewal or modification of orders 
• Integration of custody, divorce, or support matters connected to abuse

Frequently Asked Questions