Restraining Order Lawyers in Ontario
Legal orders prohibiting contact and communication to ensure your safety and peace of mind
Deepa Tailor, Senior Family Lawyer
Deepa Tailor is the founder and Managing Director of Tailor Law, a trusted Ontario family and divorce law firm. Since 2014, she has helped clients navigate separation, custody, support, and property division with clarity and compassion. Deepa holds a B.Sc. (University of Toronto) and J.D. (University of Ottawa), and regularly shares legal insights to educate and empower individuals going through complex family law matters.
The 30-Second Answer
Restraining orders are court orders that prohibit someone from contacting, communicating with, or coming near you. In Ontario, you can obtain restraining orders through family court (for family members or intimate partners) or criminal court (peace bonds for anyone). Orders can include no-contact provisions, stay-away distances, communication bans, and weapon surrenders. Violating a restraining order is a criminal offense punishable by arrest, fines, and jail time.
Types of Restraining Orders in Ontario
Family Law Restraining Order
For spouses, partners, or family members
- No contact or communication
- Stay away from home and workplace
- Exclusive possession of residence
- Can include children in protection
Criminal Peace Bond
For anyone you fear will harm you
- No contact provisions
- Geographic restrictions
- Weapon prohibitions
- Alcohol/drug conditions
Emergency Protection Order
Immediate protection in urgent situations
- Available 24/7
- Granted same day
- Temporary until full hearing
- Can be obtained without other party present
What Restraining Orders Can Include
Contact Restrictions
- No direct or indirect contact
- No phone calls, texts, or emails
- No social media contact or monitoring
- No contact through third parties
- No gifts or letters
Physical Distance
- Stay away from home (specific distance)
- Stay away from workplace
- Stay away from children's school
- Stay away from family members' homes
- Geographic exclusion zones
Weapons & Safety
- Surrender all firearms
- Prohibition on acquiring weapons
- GPS monitoring (in some cases)
- Alcohol or drug abstinence
- Anger management counseling
Children
- No contact with children
- Supervised access only
- No removal from jurisdiction
- Specific pickup/dropoff arrangements
- Communication through third party only
How to Obtain a Restraining Order
Document the Situation
Gather evidence of harassment, threats, or violence
Consult with a Lawyer
Determine the best type of order for your situation
File Court Application
Lawyer prepares and files necessary documents
Attend Court Hearing
Present your case to the judge
Obtain and Enforce Order
Receive signed order and ensure compliance
Myth vs. Reality
Restraining orders are only for physical violence
Orders can be granted for threats, harassment, stalking, emotional abuse, and any behavior that causes you to fear for your safety.
The other person has to agree to the restraining order
Restraining orders can be granted without the other person's consent. In emergencies, they can even be granted without the other person being present.
Restraining orders are just pieces of paper that don't work
Violating a restraining order is a criminal offense. Police can arrest violators immediately, and they face jail time and criminal records.
You can't get a restraining order against a family member
Family law restraining orders are specifically designed for family members, spouses, and intimate partners. They're often easier to obtain than peace bonds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Protect Yourself with a Restraining Order
Get the legal protection you need to feel safe. Our team can help you obtain and enforce restraining orders.
Meet Our TeamAbout the Author
Deepa Tailor, Senior Family Lawyer
Deepa Tailor is the founder and Managing Director of Tailor Law, a trusted Ontario family and divorce law firm. Since 2014, she has helped clients navigate separation, custody, support, and property division with clarity and compassion. Deepa holds a B.Sc. (University of Toronto) and J.D. (University of Ottawa), and regularly shares legal insights to educate and empower individuals going through complex family law matters.
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