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387 reviews
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Last Updated: August 26, 2026
Reading time: Est 6 minutes
Unfortunately, domestic violence and child abuse are common crimes in California, and they bring many people to our door who are seeking to file a restraining order and gain legal protection from their abuser. While we wish that this crime wasn’t so prevalent, the countless number of clients who have come to us, for this reason, have given our attorneys immense practice in handling these cases in court. Over the years, our lawyers have honed their skills and learned the exact tactics that secure the necessary protection for their clients. Since restraining orders can impose severe restrictions against an individual (and often rightly so), the judge will always skeptically scrutinize the reasoning behind the request. This can make it can be difficult to prove that the order is necessary. The judge will press you, and since your circumstances have already caused you immense stress, it can be difficult to organize your thoughts and provide sound arguments under this pressure. However, we founded this firm on the belief that every family deserves to live a safe, fulfilling life, and we will not back down when fighting for this belief. Thus, we will ardently and passionately strive to protect you and your children, no matter the strength of the opposition.
There are several circumstances that call for a restraining order to be put into place. The most common is domestic violence. If you or your children are experienced abuse by someone who lives with you, you have every right to request a domestic violence restraining order. Depending on the nature of the crime, this order can force your abuser to move out of the house, keep them from going near your place of work or your children’s schools, ensure that they cannot contact you, prevent them from purchasing a weapon, or impose additional restrictions as the judge deems necessary. In order to request a domestic violence restraining order, you must be experiencing abuse at the hands of your spouse, partner, or close relative. The abuse need not be physical nor does a crime have to be committed for you to request protection. Domestic violence can be threats of abuse, verbal or emotional abuse, harassment, abusing a loved one as a means of controlling you, or other actions that are designed to harm or manipulate you. The exact criteria of domestic violence restraining orders are much more in-depth than this, and we recommend that you call our firm for more information or visit the California Courts website on Domestic Violence.
Of course, domestic violence is not the only crime that necessitates a restraining order. Many people experience abuse or harassment outside of romantic relationships or from someone to whom they are not closely related. Abuse from a roommate, friend, or more distant family member will call for a civil harassment restraining order, which can impose similar limitations as the domestic violence order but with a different context. These, unfortunately, are often more difficult to prove because the court will require much more evidence. However, we know that these crimes can be just as debilitating as those of domestic violence, and firmly believe that you have the right to live your life free from threats of harm.
There are also restraining orders that are designed to protect elders or disabled adults from abusers. These are designed to protect individuals over the age of 65 (or adults of any age who are dependent on the aide of others) from neglect or abuse. They can be filed either by the adult themselves, a caregiver, or an attorney. For more information on this specific type of restraining order, please call our office at no cost to you.
Whatever your circumstance may be, there are several levels of protection that can be put in place both immediately and long-term, each of which demands different types and amounts of evidence. There are Emergency Protective Orders (EPO), which are put in place by a police officer and a judge in after a crime has been committed or there has been a serious threat of a crime. These typically do not require much evidence, as they are designed for immediate and short-term protection. There are Temporary Restraining Orders (TRO), which can be put in place while you are waiting for the final verdict on the permanent restraining order. These, again, do not typically demand as much evidence, but it depends on the situation. And, lastly, there are permanent restraining orders that last for several years after they are issued (depending on whether they are domestic violence or civil harassment orders). This level of restraining order is the most difficult to put into place and requires substantial evidence. If you fear retaliation at the hands of your abuser for filing for a permanent restraining order, please call our office for more information on how to acquire immediate protection.
However, if you are in danger right now, please contact law enforcement in your area. If you feel unsafe calling our office, you can contact us via our online contact form and request that we contact you at your place of work, through a friend, or in another way that will keep you safe. If you are afraid that your abuser/harasser might find out that you looked up information about restraining orders, please remember to delete your browsing history. We want to make sure you are safe, first and foremost, and will vigilantly fight for your legal protection. You do not need an attorney to file a restraining order. However, protecting yourself and your children is not an area where you can afford to take risks, and proving that a restraining order is necessary can be difficult, especially if your abuser is fighting against you. We know that these criminals try to threaten and confuse you in order to keep you from taking legal action against them. We will be firm, vigilant, and unphased by these attempts, providing you with a source of hope, clarity, and compassion.
Posted on GoogleLeann C
Highly recommend. Amazing and supportive during a challenging divorce. They understand woman’s rights. The team explains the steps being taken. They know how to handle a spouse that is uncooperative.Posted on GoogleRaime G
Mr.Schank did a wonderful job for our case, I can’t thank him enough! The entire team is so helpful, professional and friendly! I highly recommend their services! Thanks again! 🙌🏼Posted on GoogleRobert M
I cannot thank Schank Family Law and my attorney, Vanessa Estrada, enough for everything they did for me and my daughter. After a long and difficult custody battle, we achieved a successful outcome, and I truly believe Vanessa’s dedication, knowledge, and hard work played a major role in that victory. From day one, Vanessa genuinely cared about my case. She took the time to understand every detail, remembered every situation, and always made me feel like my case mattered. Her professionalism, preparation, and knowledge of family law gave me confidence throughout one of the most stressful times of my life. What impressed me most was how hard she fought. She never gave up, stayed focused on what was in my child’s best interest, and stood by me every step of the way. Whenever I had questions or concerns, she was responsive, honest, and always prepared. If you’re looking for an attorney who truly cares about her clients, is extremely knowledgeable, and will fight for you until the very end, I highly recommend Vanessa Estrada and Schank Family Law. Thank you, Vanessa, for helping me secure a better future for my daughter and for being such a strong advocate during this journey. I will always be grateful. ❤️Posted on GoogleAsh M
I had a awesome phone call with Clarisa she settled me made me feel a lot better took the time to hear me out.. extremely happy I made the appointment with her..Posted on GoogleVivian S
I’m so grateful for Shank Family Law. Christian Schank and Derek Austin helped me so much during an extremely stressful time, and I truly felt like I could fully rely on their knowledge and expertise. Brian in the office was also always so kind and lovely to speak with. Their whole team made me feel supported and taken care of, and honestly helped me sleep better at night knowing I was in good hands. I would never go with anyone else.Posted on GoogleCollin w
Shank Family Law was absolutely amazing. Everyone from the attorneys to the staff and secretary was compassionate, professional, and incredibly knowledgeable. They provided so much guidance and support throughout the entire process and truly made me feel cared for during a difficult time. I honestly could not imagine choosing anyone else. I’m beyond grateful for their help and highly recommend them.Posted on GoogleCooper C
Helped me so muchPosted on GoogleBeverly A
Great Family Lawyers! They really care about their clients and have great communication. I would recommend!Posted on GoogleLuke H
Working with Christian Schank was one of the best decisions I could have made during a really difficult time. They are truly the best in the state. Incredibly knowledgeable, always responsive, and they went above and beyond to protect my interests. I felt supported and confident every step of the way, and everything was handled with professionalism and care. I could not recommend them more highly.Posted on GoogleRuff F
Great firm, they are legit in family law cases
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Attorney Christian L. Schank founded Schank Family Law in 2003. With eight offices and a Certified Family Law Specialist on staff, the firm handles divorce, custody, support, and property matters in courts across the state.
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