​​​5.2.12 Restraining Orders

When dealing with the homeless, persons with emotional or mental disabilities, or disruptive personalities, locations are encouraged to consider pastoral responses before resorting to the courts.  Law enforcement often recommends obtaining a restraining order, although such orders are difficult to obtain. 

Restraining orders are generally limited to circumstances involving individuals who pose an actual and immediate threat to the health and safety of those in the workplace. The application for a restraining order must be personally served on the person to be restrained. Therefore, the person's name and address must be known.  ​Courts tend to be reluctant to issue restraining orders unless the facts are serious. If the court issues a temporary restraining order (TRO), it will be in effect for three weeks at most.  A hearing will be scheduled when the TRO expires; the hearing requires personal appearance by the individuals who seek protection. The court may either extend the protective order or allow it to expire.  Consult with the Human Resources Department and the Office of the Legal Counsel​​ for assistance in these matters.​​  

3-10-21, 10-1-2024, 4-26-2025 (pub)​