Do victims need to pay for a protection order or restraining order?

• A. Yes
• B. Sometimes
• C. Only for juveniles
• D. No

Answer: (D)

Protection orders are intended to provide immediate safety for victims, and the system keeps the process accessible by removing financial barriers. In most jurisdictions, filing for and obtaining a protection or restraining order is free of charge, and courts may offer fee waivers for those who cannot afford it. An emergency or temporary order can be issued quickly based on a sworn request, with no payment required for the order itself. There may be incidental costs later (like service or copies, or fees for renewals in some places), but obtaining the protection order itself is generally not something the victim pays for.