A protective order—also known as a stay away order of protection, an order of protection, or a restraining order—is an order from the court requiring spouses in the divorce process (or other intimate partners) not to come within a specified distance of the other spouse, not to harass the other spouse, and not to contact the other spouse by phone, e-mail, text, or otherwise. A protective order may also order the spouse against whom it is issued not to carry a firearm—even if the spouse is licensed to do so.

Under some circumstances a court may issue an ex parte (pronounced x-par-tay) temporary protective order that is in effect for a certain number of days. An ex parte protective order is issued in an emergency situation without notice to the other spouse and an opportunity for the other spouse (and the spouse’s lawyer) to respond to the application for a protective order.

When the spouse or intimate partner is served with the ex parte temporary protective order it will include notice of the hearing date on which the court will consider the application for the more permanent or full order of protection.

Laws regarding protective orders and the circumstances under which they may be issued vary from state to state but are generally based on proof of family or dating violence, domestic abuse, stalking, harassment, sexual abuse, or sexual assault. These laws are usually located in a state’s statutes—often in the family code or domestic relations code.

In Ohio, a protective order, also known as a restraining order, is a legal directive issued by a court to prevent one individual from contacting or coming near another, particularly in cases involving spouses in the midst of divorce or other intimate partners. Ohio law allows for the issuance of an ex parte temporary protective order in emergency situations where there is an immediate threat of harm. This type of order can be granted without the other party's knowledge or presence in court, and it remains in effect for a specified period until a full hearing can be held. At the full hearing, both parties, including the respondent and their attorney, have the opportunity to present their case. The issuance of a protective order in Ohio typically requires evidence of domestic violence, stalking, harassment, sexual abuse, or assault. If a protective order is granted, it may include provisions such as prohibiting the individual from carrying a firearm, even if they are licensed to do so. The specific statutes governing protective orders in Ohio can be found in the state's Revised Code, particularly in sections related to domestic relations and protection orders.