A restraining order is granted by the civil courts and can only be requested during normal court hours. When you apply for a restraining order, you are called the "applicant" and the person against whom the order is being sought is called the "respondent".

In order to obtain a restraining order, you must make an application to a judge. If you are on a low income, you may be able to apply for Legal Aid for legal assistance in getting a restraining order. If you are in an emergency situation and require a restraining order very quickly, be sure to tell the staff at the Legal Aid office.

In a non-emergency situation, notice of the application for a restraining order must be given to the respondent. That person can then choose to attend the application and speak about the order being granted from his or her perspective.