What Is a Protective Order in Louisiana?
Fontenot Law handles protective order matters throughout Lake Charles and Calcasieu Parish. A protective order — also called a restraining order — is a court-issued directive that legally prohibits one person from contacting, approaching, or harassing another. In Louisiana, protective orders are governed by the Domestic Abuse Assistance Act (La. R.S. 46:2131 et seq.) and related statutes covering stalking and dating violence.
Protective orders can restrict in-person contact, calls, texts, emails, and third-party contact. They may also require one party to vacate a shared home, surrender firearms, or comply with custody-related restrictions.
Types of Protective Orders in Louisiana
- Emergency Protective Order (EPO): Issued by law enforcement at the scene of a domestic violence incident. Effective for a short period until a court hearing can be held.
- Temporary Restraining Order (TRO): Issued ex parte by a judge when there is an immediate threat. Generally lasts until a hearing is scheduled, typically within 15 days.
- Protective Order After Hearing: Issued after both parties present their case. Can last up to 18 months and is renewable.
- Permanent Protective Order: Issued after a full hearing with a finding of domestic abuse or qualifying conduct. May be indefinite under certain circumstances.
A Protective Order Has Serious Legal Consequences
- Violations can result in immediate arrest and criminal charges
- Even indirect contact through a third party can constitute a violation
- An order can affect housing, employment, firearm rights, and custody
- If you've been served with an order, contact our office immediately
How to Get a Protective Order in Lake Charles
To request a Temporary Restraining Order, you file a petition at the Calcasieu Parish Family Court or District Court describing the abuse, harassment, or stalking. A judge decides whether to grant a TRO — often the same day. Law enforcement can also issue an Emergency Protective Order at the scene of a domestic incident.
Our firm helps you through every step: gathering evidence, preparing your petition, accompanying you to court, and representing you at the hearing where both parties appear. Having legal representation at that hearing significantly strengthens your position.
Defending Against a Protective Order
Protective orders can be granted based on one party's account before the other has a chance to respond. If you've been served with a TRO based on exaggerated or false allegations, you have the right to contest it at the scheduled hearing. Our team reviews the allegations, identifies weaknesses in the petitioner's account, gathers evidence and witnesses, and presents your case to the judge.
Protective Orders and Custody Cases
Protective orders frequently intersect with divorce and child custody proceedings. An order can directly affect where children live, visitation schedules, and who remains in the family home during a divorce. Our firm handles these situations strategically — coordinating the protective order proceeding with any related family law matter.
Serving Lake Charles and Calcasieu Parish
Our office is at 2706 Hodges Street in Lake Charles. We serve clients throughout Calcasieu Parish, including Sulphur, Westlake, DeQuincy, and Vinton. Call (337) 508-2627 or use the form on this page.
What Clients Say
Devin and his team were amazing. He explained every step of the process clearly, answered all my questions, and fought hard for our family. I could not have asked for better representation.
Professional, courteous, and works hard for clients. All matters were handled respectfully and we could not have had better outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Temporary Restraining Order can often be issued the same day you file a petition at the Calcasieu Parish courthouse, if the judge finds sufficient grounds. Law enforcement can also issue an Emergency Protective Order at the scene of a domestic incident. A full hearing on a longer-term order is typically scheduled within 15 days.
You do not need physical proof to request a TRO — a sworn statement describing the abuse, harassment, or stalking is the starting point. Supporting evidence such as photographs, text messages, voicemails, medical records, or witness statements significantly strengthens your case at the full hearing.
Yes. A protective order can restrict or alter visitation, require supervised visitation, or affect which parent remains in the family home. Any protective order — sought by you or against you — can have a direct impact on an ongoing custody proceeding. Our firm handles both matters together.
Yes. A Temporary Restraining Order is issued without your input, but a hearing is scheduled where you can present your side. You have the right to contest the allegations, present evidence, and call witnesses. Having legal representation at the hearing is important to achieving the best possible outcome.
Violating a protective order in Louisiana is a criminal offense punishable by fines and jail time. Even indirect contact can constitute a violation. If someone is violating an order against you, document every incident and contact both law enforcement and our office immediately.