Restraining Orders

Protecting Your Safety. Defending Your Rights.

Bender, Larson, Chidley, Koppes, Hetfield & Associates represents individuals seeking or responding to restraining orders in Wisconsin. Whether you need immediate protection from harassment or abuse, or you are defending against an improperly issued order, our attorneys provide prompt, knowledgeable representation focused on safety, fairness, and due process.

Understanding Restraining Orders in Wisconsin

Restraining orders and injunctions are court orders designed to prevent contact or certain behaviors. These orders can have immediate and serious legal consequences, including restrictions on contact, residence, employment, and firearm possession. It is important to understand your rights and obligations under Wisconsin law.

Who We Represent

Our attorneys represent clients on both sides of restraining order proceedings, including:

• Individuals seeking protection from harassment, abuse, or threats.
• Individuals accused of violating or being subject to a restraining order.
• Parents involved in restraining orders affecting custody or placement.
• Clients facing employment or housing consequences due to an injunction.

Types of Restraining Orders We Handle

Domestic Abuse Restraining Orders

• Temporary restraining orders (TROs).
• Final injunction hearings.
• Orders involving spouses, former spouses, or family members.

Harassment Restraining Orders

• Protection from repeated or threatening behavior.
• Non-domestic harassment cases.
• Defense against unfounded or exaggerated allegations.

Child Abuse & Individual at Risk Orders

• Injunctions involving minors or vulnerable adults.
• Emergency and long-term protective orders.
• Coordination with related family court matters.

Our Restraining Order Services

Seeking a Restraining Order

• Preparing and filing petitions for restraining orders.
• Representation at temporary and final injunction hearings.
• Presenting evidence and witness testimony.
• Advising clients on enforcement and compliance.

Defending Against a Restraining Order

• Challenging insufficient or false allegations.
• Representing clients at injunction hearings.
• Protecting parental rights, employment, and reputation.
• Addressing alleged violations of existing orders.

Why Clients Choose Bender Law

• Prompt Action: Restraining orders move quickly, and we act without delay.
• Balanced Advocacy: We prioritize safety while ensuring fair legal process.
• Family Law Experience: We understand how restraining orders affect custody, placement, and divorce matters.
• Clear Guidance: We explain your rights, responsibilities, and next steps in plain language.
• Local Representation: Serving Watertown and communities throughout Wisconsin.

Common Issues We Address

• Emergency restraining orders and injunction hearings.
• False or exaggerated claims of harassment or abuse.
• Restraining orders impacting child custody or placement.
• Alleged violations of restraining orders.
• Modification or dismissal of existing injunctions.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How quickly can a restraining order be issued? Temporary restraining orders may be issued the same day, with a court hearing scheduled shortly thereafter.
• Do I need an attorney? While not required, legal representation is strongly recommended due to the serious consequences involved.
• What happens if a restraining order is violated? Violations may result in criminal charges, fines, or jail time.
• Can a restraining order be removed? In some cases, orders may be modified or dismissed by the court.

Contact Us

To speak with an attorney at our Watertown office, please visit our contact pageor call Bender, Larson, Chidley, Koppes, Hetfield & Associates at (920) 261-7626.