A restraining order offers legal protection when a relationship becomes unsafe. But when your ex breaks that order, it can feel frightening and disruptive. Taking quick action helps protect your safety and strengthens your legal position. At Story Law in Bellevue, WA, we work with families facing these challenges. Our attorneys provide clear steps and strong representation in family law and domestic violence cases.
What Counts as a Restraining Order Violation in Washington
A restraining order is a court order that sets boundaries. In Washington, these orders often connect to divorce or custody cases. Violations may include:
- Appearing at your home, workplace, or your child’s school
- Calling, texting, or sending messages online
- Using others to deliver messages
- Threatening, stalking, or harassing behavior
- Ignoring court limits on parenting time
Even small violations matter. Courts see these actions as serious signs of disrespect for their orders.
Call the Police Right Away
If your ex violates a restraining order, call the police immediately. Officers respond quickly, protect your safety, and document the violation. In many cases, they arrest the violator on the spot.
Reporting even minor contact builds a record. That record shows the court that your ex is ignoring the order and helps your attorney argue for stronger protection.
Keep Your Own Records
In addition to police reports, keep your own notes. Write down the date, time, and place of each violation. Describe exactly what happened in simple, clear terms.
Also save evidence such as voicemails, texts, emails, or social media posts. Witness statements add more strength to your case. Together, these records show a pattern of behavior that the court cannot ignore.
Contact Your Family Law Attorney
After reporting the violation, reach out to your family law attorney. At Story Law, we help Bellevue clients understand their options and respond quickly to violations.
Often, your attorney may file a motion for contempt. This asks the court to enforce the order and punish your ex for ignoring it. Depending on your situation, your lawyer may also request stronger protections, such as supervised visits or extended restraining orders.
Consequences for Breaking a Restraining Order
Breaking a restraining order is a crime in Washington. The court may respond with serious penalties, including:
- Arrest and criminal charges
- Jail time or fines
- Mandatory counseling or treatment programs
- Reduced or restricted custody and visitation rights
Repeat violations usually lead to tougher penalties. Judges expect their orders to be followed, and they act firmly when someone continues to ignore them.
Protecting Children When Orders Are Violated
When children are involved, violations have greater impact. If your ex shows up during exchanges or contacts your child against court rules, the court views this as a serious risk.
If this happens, document it carefully. Then, tell both law enforcement and your attorney. At Story Law, we often request changes to custody or parenting plans when violations endanger children.
Extra Safety Steps You Can Take
Legal action matters, but practical steps can help protect your family too. Consider these measures:
- Share copies of the restraining order with schools and caregivers
- Change locks or install security cameras at home
- Tell trusted neighbors and friends about the order so they can help
- Keep a copy of the order with you at all times
These actions provide extra peace of mind while your attorney handles the legal side.
The Role of a Divorce Attorney in Bellevue, WA
If your ex keeps breaking a restraining order, a divorce attorney in Bellevue can step in. At Story Law, we gather evidence, file motions, and represent clients in court. We also explain how violations may affect divorce, custody, or spousal support cases.
Our team combines compassion with strong advocacy, giving you both guidance and protection during a stressful time.
Restraining Orders and Domestic Violence
Restraining order violations often go hand-in-hand with domestic violence. If your ex has a history of abuse, stalking, or harassment, violations may show that the behavior is escalating.
Reporting violations helps prevent further harm and strengthens your request for more protection. At Story Law, we handle both family law and domestic violence cases, guiding clients toward safe and lasting solutions.
Why You Should Act Quickly
Delaying a report often encourages more violations. Acting quickly shows your ex that you expect the order to be followed. It also gives your attorney stronger evidence to present in court.
When you move fast, you protect yourself, your children, and your rights.
Work With Story Law in Bellevue
At Story Law, we support individuals and families across Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, and surrounding areas. We help clients respond to restraining order violations with care and firm legal action.
Our attorneys handle all aspects of family law, including divorce, custody, parenting plans, and domestic violence cases. If your ex has broken a restraining order, we are ready to guide you and protect your family.
Take the Next Step Toward Safety
A restraining order protects your safety, but only if it is respected. When your ex violates that order, you have the right to act. By calling the police, keeping records, and working with a family law attorney, you protect yourself and your loved ones.
If you need help, Story Law in Bellevue, WA is here for you. Call our office today to speak with a family law attorney who will stand by your side.
