Restraining Orders in Sugar Land, TX

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When safety is at stake, the law can provide protection. In Texas, restraining orders—often called protective orders—are legal tools designed to help keep individuals and families safe from harassment, threats, or abuse. If you’re in a situation where you feel unsafe, it’s important to know your options and how the process works.

At The Gulley Law Firm, LLC, we’ve helped people in Sugar Land and Fort Bend County seek protection through the courts, and we’ve also represented individuals who have had restraining orders filed against them. No matter which side of the situation you’re on, understanding your rights and responsibilities is crucial.

Learn more about our services at www.gulleylawgroup.com.

What Is a Restraining Order?

In Texas, the term “restraining order” is sometimes used broadly, but legally, there are a few different types of court orders that can apply:

Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs): Often issued in civil cases like divorce, these prevent one spouse from taking certain actions (like hiding money, selling property, or harassing the other spouse) while the case is pending.

Protective Orders: These are most often used in family violence or harassment cases. They can order someone to stay away from you, your children, your home, or your workplace.

Magistrate’s Orders of Emergency Protection: Issued after an arrest for family violence, these can provide immediate protection for a short period of time.

Each type of order works differently, but the purpose is the same: to create a legal boundary that helps protect safety and prevent further harm.

When Can You Seek a Protective Order?

A protective order may be available if you’ve experienced:

Family violence (physical harm, threats, or abuse by a family or household member).

Stalking or harassment.

Dating violence.

Sexual assault.

You don’t have to wait until the situation gets worse. If you’re worried about your safety—or your children’s—you can ask the court for help.

How Protective Orders Work in Texas

The process usually begins with filing a request (called a petition) at the courthouse. Here’s a general outline:

Filing the petition: You explain why you’re seeking protection and what has happened.

Temporary protection: In some cases, the court may issue a temporary order right away.

Court hearing: Both sides have the chance to present evidence and tell their story.

Final order: If the judge finds enough evidence, a protective order may be issued.

Protective orders can:

Require the other person to stay away from you, your children, and specific places.

Prohibit harassment, threats, or contact.

Remove firearms from the other person’s possession.

Establish temporary custody or visitation rules to protect children.

Violating a protective order is a criminal offense in Texas, which means law enforcement can step in immediately if the order is broken.

Restraining Orders in Divorce Cases

In family law cases like divorce or custody disputes, temporary restraining orders are sometimes used to prevent one spouse from making big financial or parenting moves while the case is ongoing. For example, a TRO might prevent one parent from taking the children out of state, or it might stop a spouse from draining joint bank accounts.

These aren’t necessarily about safety—they’re about fairness and maintaining stability until the court can make longer-term decisions.

Defending Against a Restraining Order

Being served with a restraining order can feel overwhelming and even unfair, especially if you believe the claims are exaggerated or false. At The Gulley Law Firm, LLC, we also represent individuals who need to defend themselves in these cases.

A protective order can affect your job, your ability to see your children, and even your right to own firearms. That’s why it’s important to respond quickly and carefully. Everyone deserves the chance to be heard, and the court makes its decision based on the evidence presented.

The Emotional Impact

Restraining orders aren’t just legal documents—they’re deeply personal. We’ve seen clients come to us exhausted, afraid to go home, or worried about their kids’ safety. We’ve also worked with clients who were shocked to find themselves facing an order they didn’t expect.

These cases are stressful for everyone involved. Having a lawyer by your side doesn’t erase the difficulty, but it can make the process clearer, calmer, and more manageable.

Why Work With The Gulley Law Firm, LLC?

Handling restraining and protective orders requires both legal knowledge and sensitivity. These cases often involve family dynamics, high emotions, and serious safety concerns. We take that seriously.

Based in Sugar Land, we understand the local courts and the challenges families here face. At The Gulley Law Firm, LLC, our goal is simple: to provide clear, practical guidance and to protect your rights—whether you’re seeking a restraining order or responding to one.

A Local Perspective

Sugar Land is a close-knit community. Many of our clients worry about what neighbors, schools, or workplaces will think if a restraining order becomes part of their lives. We remind them: you’re not alone. Protective orders exist because people need them, and seeking help is nothing to be ashamed of.

We’ve also seen how false or exaggerated claims can disrupt lives. That’s why we approach every case with care, making sure the facts and the law are both respected.

Protecting Yourself and Your Family

If you’re considering a restraining order—or if you’ve been served with one—don’t try to figure it out on your own. These cases can move quickly, and the stakes are high.

Reach out to The Gulley Law Firm, LLC today. Visit www.gulleylawgroup.com to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options.

Whether you need protection or need to defend your rights, we’re here to guide you through the process with honesty and care.