Sexual Assault Restraining Order Forms North Dakota

Overview

The Sexual Assault Restraining Order (SARO) forms provided by the North Dakota Court System give survivors of sexual assault an accessible, standardized way to ask the court for protection. These forms convert a personal experience of sexual assault into an official, court-recognized petition that can produce immediate and enforceable safety measures. Petitioners—people seeking protection—complete a set of three coordinated documents: the Petition for Sexual Assault Restraining Order, the Confidential Information Form, and the Protection/Restraining Order Cover Sheet. Each serves a unique purpose within the process and must be completed accurately for the court to issue temporary or final protection orders.

North Dakota’s Legislature and Supreme Court created these forms to remove cost and complexity barriers. They can be filled out by anyone without an attorney. The language is straightforward, the sections are organized chronologically, and supplemental instructions clarify each field. When completed properly, these forms provide judges with a concise account of events, ensuring consistent treatment across counties. Once filed, the documents enable a judge to issue a temporary order (ex parte) within hours if necessary, followed by a full hearing within 14 days. The forms are legally binding instruments—once signed by a judge, they compel law enforcement to intervene if violations occur.

Survivors can download, print, or complete the forms online through guided platforms like LegalAtoms, which transform the official templates into an intuitive questionnaire format. The guided version prevents omissions and automatically populates required fields, ensuring every SARO petition complies with N.D.C.C. § 12.1-31-01.2 and statewide administrative rules.

Who Benefits & Who Can Apply

Individuals who have been victims of non-consensual sexual acts or sexual contact benefit most from using the official SARO forms. These cases often involve acquaintances, coworkers, classmates, or strangers rather than family or household members. If the respondent is a spouse, partner, or family member, the correct paperwork is a Domestic Violence Protection Order. Anyone 18 years or older who experienced sexual assault in North Dakota—or whose assault was committed by someone in the state—may file. In addition, parents, stepparents, or legal guardians can file on behalf of minors or incapacitated adults. Certified Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Advocates under Administrative Rule 34 may assist survivors in completing the forms and may accompany them to court, though they do not provide legal representation.

Using the official forms ensures eligibility compliance and uniform processing across the state’s judicial districts. The forms have built-in legal prompts—such as the “Describe what happened” section—that encourage petitioners to provide facts meeting the statutory definition of sexual assault. By adhering to these forms, petitioners avoid re-filing errors and improve their chances of obtaining temporary protection immediately.

Benefits of Using Official Court Forms

Filing with standardized SARO forms offers clear advantages:

• Legitimacy and Uniformity: The same forms are used statewide, ensuring consistent judicial treatment.
• Accessibility: They can be filled by hand or through user-friendly digital tools like LegalAtoms.
• Speed: Courts process standardized petitions faster, often granting temporary relief the same day.
• Enforceability: Judges and law-enforcement officers instantly recognize official form layouts, reducing ambiguity during enforcement.
• Cost-Free Filing: All SARO filings are exempt from fees under N.D.C.C. § 12.1-31-01.2(12).

These benefits combine legal authority with survivor-centered design, making the SARO forms an indispensable safety mechanism in North Dakota’s protective-order system.

Step 1: Understand the Purpose and Scope of Each SARO Form

Before writing anything, study the three core SARO forms. Each carries distinct legal weight, and understanding their relationship prevents mistakes later in the process.

1. Petition for Sexual Assault Restraining Order: This is the substantive pleading where the petitioner outlines what happened, requests specific protections, and certifies the truth of the allegations. It forms the foundation for judicial action. Key sections include the names of the petitioner and respondent, a narrative of the assault, and checkboxes for requested relief (no contact, stay-away zones, surrender of firearms, etc.). Because judges decide temporary orders solely from this document, clarity and detail are essential. Avoid emotional language; emphasize facts such as dates, times, and descriptions of conduct.

2. Confidential Information Form: North Dakota’s open-records rules make most filings public, but this companion form shields sensitive data—addresses, phone numbers, and identifying details. Only court staff and law enforcement may view it. Filling it out accurately ensures the sheriff can serve the respondent quickly while keeping the petitioner’s location private. Survivors should double-check that this form is firmly stapled behind the petition and clearly marked “Confidential.”

3. Protection/Restraining Order Cover Sheet: This administrative page categorizes the case within the statewide Odyssey case-management system. It records demographic data, county, and case type. Selecting “Sexual Assault Restraining Order” under the “Type of Order” field ensures proper routing to judges trained in protective-order matters. While brief, it is indispensable—cases filed without a cover sheet can be delayed or rejected for indexing errors.

Comprehending these three layers—the substantive petition, the confidential supplement, and the administrative cover—helps you present a complete, organized filing package. Taking time to review the official instructions PDF ensures you understand the purpose of every blank line before pen meets paper or you begin the online questionnaire on LegalAtoms.

Step 2: Gather All Information Needed to Complete the Forms

Completing SARO forms accurately requires gathering detailed personal and incident-specific information in advance. Start with basic identification: full legal names, current and former addresses, phone numbers, birthdates, and physical descriptions for both you (the petitioner) and the respondent. Law enforcement uses these identifiers for service, and incomplete data can stall proceedings. Include workplace and school addresses if you want them protected under the order.

Next, assemble factual details about each sexual-assault incident. Judges evaluate “reasonable grounds” based on precision—dates, approximate times, locations, and concise event summaries. Write down what happened, who was present, and any immediate aftermath (medical treatment, police report, messages, etc.). Organize incidents chronologically; if more than one event occurred, number them. Avoid speculation or emotional descriptions—courts favor factual coherence over expressive intensity.

Gather documentation: medical records, police reports, photographs, witness statements, or text messages. Make copies for your records; never submit originals. For digital evidence such as social-media messages, take screenshots with visible timestamps. If these materials contain private information unrelated to the assault, redact those portions. Use the Confidential Information Form for addresses or identifiers you do not want public. Keep everything together in an envelope marked “For Court Use Only.”

If you plan to use LegalAtoms, upload or transcribe this data into the online questionnaire—it prompts for each detail in plain English (“When did the assault happen?” “Where?” “How did the respondent contact you afterward?”). The system automatically inserts answers into the correct fields on the official forms, ensuring completeness and alignment with North Dakota formatting standards.

Thorough preparation prevents the two most common errors: missing respondent information and vague incident summaries. Once you have all facts and documents organized, you can complete the official forms confidently, knowing you have provided the court with everything required to take swift, decisive action.

Step 3: Choose Your Method of Completion — Handwritten or Digital

North Dakota allows SARO forms to be completed either by hand or digitally. The method you choose should balance accessibility, privacy, and precision.

Handwritten Completion: If you prefer a tangible approach, print the forms single-sided on white paper using black ink. Write legibly in block letters. Complete every line—do not leave blanks unless a field clearly says “Optional.” For long answers, attach an extra page titled “Continuation of Petition” and reference the question number. Sign and date each page where indicated. Handwritten petitions remain entirely valid; many survivors find writing therapeutic and private, especially if internet access is limited. Double-check spelling of names and addresses. Judges appreciate clarity and consistency.

Digital Completion: For higher accuracy, fill the forms electronically using the fillable PDFs or through LegalAtoms. The latter walks you through conversational prompts, automatically applies word-limits and formatting, and produces a ready-to-file packet. This method eliminates handwriting errors and ensures that confidential pages are properly labeled. Petitioners who complete forms online can print them immediately or, in some counties, e-file them directly through the Odyssey portal. Digital completion also simplifies revision if the court requests clarifications—edit, re-print, and resubmit without rewriting everything.

Regardless of method, remember: accuracy outweighs aesthetics. Courts prioritize content clarity over appearance, yet typed petitions expedite review and data entry. If you lack internet access or a printer, advocates can help you fill out digital forms at community resource centers. For survivors concerned about privacy on shared computers, LegalAtoms offers a “Quick Exit” button and auto-deletion of session data.

Once all forms are filled, assemble them in order—Petition on top, Confidential Information Form beneath, Cover Sheet last—and prepare to proceed to filing in Step 4. Whether handwritten or digital, these standardized documents transform your experience into a formal legal request commanding the court’s protection.

Step 4: Complete the Petition for Sexual Assault Restraining Order

The Petition for Sexual Assault Restraining Order is the core document that communicates your story and your request for legal protection. Everything the judge initially knows about your situation comes from what you write here. For that reason, this form deserves careful attention and accuracy. The first page identifies the parties. List your full legal name as the “Petitioner” and the alleged offender as the “Respondent.” If filing on behalf of someone else, include that person’s name under “Protected Person” and specify your relationship (e.g., “mother,” “legal guardian”). Ensure spelling matches official identification, as misspellings can delay data entry or service.

In the section titled “Describe what happened,” give a factual narrative of each assault or unwanted contact. Include dates, locations, and key details: where you were, what the respondent did, whether anyone witnessed it, and how you reacted. Avoid general statements like “he assaulted me repeatedly.” Instead, use concrete sentences such as “On May 10, 2025, at my workplace, the respondent touched me without consent and later sent explicit messages.” Judges prefer clarity over emotion. If multiple incidents occurred, list them in chronological order and number each paragraph for easier reference during the hearing. The law requires “reasonable grounds” of a sexual assault—specific descriptions help meet that threshold.

Next, move to the “Protection Requested” section. Here, you select what you want the judge to order: no contact of any kind (including social media), stay-away distances (typically 100–500 feet), exclusion from specific addresses (home, work, school), and firearm surrender. Check every box that applies. North Dakota judges generally grant all reasonable restrictions consistent with safety needs. If you are unsure, check “all of the above.” You can always narrow scope later.

At the bottom, sign and date under the affirmation clause. Your signature certifies that everything you’ve stated is true to the best of your knowledge. False statements carry penalties for perjury under N.D.C.C. § 12.1-11-02. If completing digitally, use the PDF’s built-in signature feature or print and sign manually. Retain a copy for your records. For accuracy and completeness, LegalAtoms can guide you through a step-by-step digital interview that fills in this petition automatically based on your answers, ensuring every legal element is included and properly phrased.

Step 5: Fill out the Confidential Information Form

The Confidential Information Form (CIF) protects your private data while still giving law enforcement what they need to serve papers and verify identities. This document is automatically sealed—only the judge, clerk, and sheriff’s office can access it. It is not available to the respondent or the public. Fill this out carefully to avoid administrative delays in service or communication.

Provide complete contact details for yourself, including mailing address, phone number, and email. If you are staying at a confidential location (such as a shelter), write “CONFIDENTIAL” and supply the mailing address of your advocate’s agency instead. This ensures that no public record exposes your whereabouts. Next, enter the respondent’s identifying information—birthdate (if known), current address, workplace, phone number, physical description, and vehicle details. Even partial data (like employer name or general neighborhood) helps the sheriff locate and serve them. If the respondent is a student, list the school name.

Under “Protected Persons,” list every individual covered by the order, such as children or dependents. Include their names and dates of birth. Courts use this information to confirm who receives protection and who may later request renewal. Attach additional pages if necessary. Be precise: incorrect spelling or date of birth can cause confusion in enforcement databases. Once complete, double-check that each entry aligns with what you wrote in the petition.

At the bottom, sign and date. This signature does not appear on public records. If using LegalAtoms, all confidential fields automatically populate onto the sealed CIF and are not shared in the public petition. This separation is critical to preserving privacy while maintaining procedural accuracy. Submit the CIF together with the petition and cover sheet in one packet to the clerk; never file it separately. Its presence signals to the court that your filing complies fully with confidentiality requirements. When handled correctly, this form ensures that your private contact information never appears in searchable court dockets.

Step 6: Complete the Protection/Restraining Order Cover Sheet

The Protection/Restraining Order Cover Sheet may appear routine, but it plays a vital administrative role. It ensures your case is correctly entered into the state’s Odyssey case-management system and routed to the appropriate district judge. This form standardizes demographic and procedural data, allowing the court to track SARO cases consistently statewide. Skipping or mis-checking boxes can delay processing or cause misclassification as a different case type.

On the top section, provide the county where you are filing. Beneath that, fill in your name as “Petitioner” and the respondent’s as “Respondent.” Under “Type of Case,” select “Sexual Assault Restraining Order.” Do not confuse it with “Disorderly Conduct” or “Domestic Violence.” Those are separate statutes. Indicate whether a temporary order is requested (“Yes” if you seek immediate relief). Enter your contact information as it appears on the CIF so that clerks can verify consistency. Some counties request demographic data like gender or ethnicity for statistical purposes; these fields are optional.

In the middle portion, you’ll find a space for “Additional Protected Persons.” Repeat the same names you listed on the CIF. Consistency across forms is essential because law-enforcement databases rely on exact matches. The bottom section asks for attorney or advocate information if applicable. If you are self-represented, leave that blank. Review all fields carefully before signing. Missing signatures are among the most common reasons for rejected filings.

Attach this cover sheet behind the petition and CIF when submitting. When filed digitally through LegalAtoms, the system automatically appends a formatted cover sheet that matches the court’s layout. This automation helps prevent clerical mistakes and ensures your petition enters the correct workflow. Once accepted, the clerk assigns a case number and forwards the packet to the judge for review. This small administrative step ensures your filing is recognized as an official court action eligible for a protective order under North Dakota law.

Step 7: Review and Assemble the Complete Packet for Filing

Before heading to the courthouse, review your packet for completeness and consistency. The North Dakota Courts encourage petitioners to check three key alignment points: names, dates, and protection requests. Start by confirming that every form bears the same spelling of petitioner and respondent names, identical addresses, and identical lists of protected persons. Judges rely on uniformity across documents to verify authenticity and avoid confusion. Even minor discrepancies (like “Jon” vs. “John”) can cause clerical errors in the Odyssey database or the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) system used for enforcement.

Next, ensure that the Petition is signed and dated, the Confidential Information Form is marked “Confidential” and securely attached, and the Cover Sheet is properly filled out. Arrange them in this order: Petition on top, followed by CIF, followed by Cover Sheet. If you have additional exhibits—text messages, photos, or statements—place them behind the cover sheet and label them “Exhibit A,” “Exhibit B,” etc. Use paper clips instead of staples to allow easy scanning at the clerk’s office.

Double-check the language of your requests. The “Relief Sought” boxes should align with your actual safety needs. For instance, if you indicated “no contact at my residence,” but you also need protection at your workplace, ensure both are listed. Consistency between written requests and testimony at the hearing improves judicial clarity. Verify that your contact number and mailing address are accurate, as this is how the clerk will notify you of the hearing date and temporary order status.

If using LegalAtoms, the platform generates a complete packet automatically arranged in the correct order with a checklist confirming all sections are filled. Review the final PDF on screen, then print or download for electronic submission. For handwritten filings, review legibility—judges frequently note that illegible handwriting slows emergency review. Once satisfied, make two copies of the entire packet (one for you, one for the sheriff). You’re now ready to proceed to Step 8, filing the SARO packet with the Clerk of District Court.

Step 8: File the completed SARO packet at the Clerk of District Court

Once your forms are complete and reviewed, the next critical step is filing the packet with the Clerk of District Court. Filing officially opens your case and triggers judicial review. In North Dakota, you can file in any district court where you or the respondent reside, or where the assault occurred. Take your original packet and two copies—one for the clerk’s file, one for your records, and one for the sheriff’s office. If you’ve used LegalAtoms, you can print the automatically ordered packet with all three forms correctly sequenced and labeled, ready for submission. Hand the packet to the clerk and request a time-stamped copy as proof of filing.

There is no filing fee. Under N.D.C.C. § 12.1-31-01.2 (12), the legislature removed all costs for SARO petitions to ensure survivors can access justice regardless of income. If any clerk or staff mistakenly requests payment, calmly reference that provision or show the official instructions sheet from ndcourts.gov. Once accepted, the clerk will assign a case number, create an electronic file in the Odyssey case-management system, and forward your petition to a judge for immediate review. The review may occur within hours for emergency filings or by the next business day in smaller counties.

Ask the clerk the following: how you will receive notice of a temporary order, who serves the respondent, and when to expect a hearing date. Most counties coordinate directly with the sheriff’s office to deliver papers, but some require you to bring copies to the sheriff yourself. Keep your copy safe—it serves as proof of what was filed. If you move, notify the clerk right away to prevent missed court notices. Should you require translation services, the court will provide an interpreter at no cost. The filing step converts your completed forms into an active legal case—one that commands judicial attention and triggers the protective process.

Step 9: Monitor judicial review and temporary (ex parte) decision

After the clerk forwards your petition, a judge reviews it to decide whether a temporary (ex parte) order should be granted. “Ex parte” means the judge can act immediately, without notifying the respondent first, if the petition shows credible fear of ongoing harm. The decision is based entirely on your written forms, so the accuracy and clarity of your narrative are paramount. If the judge finds reasonable grounds, they will issue a Temporary Sexual Assault Restraining Order that takes effect as soon as it’s signed. The order forbids the respondent from contacting you in any way—phone, text, email, social media, or through others—and often bars them from your home, school, or workplace.

Temporary orders remain valid until a full hearing occurs, which must be scheduled within 14 days. You’ll receive a copy of the order and a Notice of Hearing listing the date, time, and courtroom. If the judge needs more detail before granting temporary relief, they may deny the ex parte order but still set a hearing so you can testify in person. Denial does not end your case—it simply means the judge wants to hear evidence under oath.

Once the order is signed, the clerk transmits it to the sheriff’s office for service on the respondent. Law enforcement treats these as priority deliveries. The sheriff will personally hand the papers to the respondent, making the order enforceable statewide. If the respondent violates it before the hearing, call 911 and show officers your copy; police can arrest on the spot under § 12.1-31-01.2 (10). Keep one certified copy with you and another in a secure location. This stage underscores why correctly completed forms are vital—the judge’s decision rests solely on the quality of the paperwork you filed.

If you used LegalAtoms, you can track court updates electronically, receive automated hearing reminders, and download any temporary orders once issued. The digital workflow ensures you remain informed during this short but crucial period between filing and the hearing.

Step 10: Attend the hearing and finalize the SARO

The final step involves attending the hearing where the judge determines whether to issue a final Sexual Assault Restraining Order lasting up to two years. Bring copies of your petition, evidence, and any witnesses. Check in with the bailiff when you arrive. The judge will call your case, confirm appearances, and swear you in. You’ll present your testimony first—calmly explain what happened, focusing on details already in your petition. Show any exhibits such as text messages or photos; each will be marked and entered into the record. Judges appreciate concise, factual statements: “He came to my residence uninvited on June 5 and grabbed my arm,” not “He ruined my life.”

After you testify, the respondent (if present) may respond. Stay composed and avoid direct confrontation. The judge may question both parties for clarification. When the judge believes they have enough information, they will announce a decision or issue a written order later that day. If granted, the final SARO continues all temporary restrictions and may include additional provisions such as firearm surrender or mandatory distance limits. Obtain certified copies before leaving the courthouse. Provide one to your local police department and keep another with you at all times. The order is effective immediately and enforceable statewide.

If denied, ask the judge to explain the reason. You may re-file if new evidence arises or if continued harassment occurs. Most denials stem from insufficient detail or lack of clarity, not disbelief. Updating the petition through LegalAtoms ensures no sections are left incomplete in future filings. Once the final SARO is issued, it offers civil protection backed by criminal enforcement—violations are Class A misdemeanors or, for repeat offenders, Class C felonies. The completed forms thus culminate in tangible legal safety.

Costs Associated

All SARO filings in North Dakota are free. There are no court fees, service charges, or costs for certified copies. Petitioners only incur optional expenses if they hire private counsel or print additional exhibits. The official instructions confirm fee waivers under § 12.1-31-01.2 (12). This ensures survivors face no financial obstacle to protection. For accuracy and convenience, LegalAtoms offers free digital preparation that mirrors the state forms exactly.

Time Required

The SARO process is designed for speed. Temporary orders can issue the same day the petition is filed. Hearings occur within 14 days, and final orders are entered immediately afterward. From start to finish, most survivors receive enforceable protection within two to three weeks. Preparation time depends on how quickly you can gather information and documents, but once filed, the court’s schedule moves briskly.

Limitations

A Sexual Assault Restraining Order is a civil measure; it does not establish criminal guilt. The respondent faces criminal penalties only if they violate the order. Orders last a maximum of two years and must be renewed for continued protection. Some personal information becomes public record (excluding the sealed Confidential Information Form). The SARO cannot resolve financial issues or award damages—it exists solely to prevent contact and harassment. Petitioners must maintain vigilance: renewal before expiration ensures uninterrupted safety coverage.

Risks and Unexpected Problems

Service delays: Respondents who move or avoid law enforcement can postpone hearings; keep the sheriff updated with new addresses.
Emotional distress: Reliving the assault during testimony may trigger trauma; bring an advocate for support.
Retaliation risk: Report any intimidation immediately—police can intervene based on the temporary order.
Clerical errors: Misspelled names or missing pages can hinder enforcement; review packets before filing.
Renewal lapses: Failing to renew before expiration ends protection automatically.
Privacy concerns: Use the Confidential Information Form and refrain from posting case details online.
By following the standardized forms and using digital tools like LegalAtoms, petitioners can minimize these risks and maintain clear, court-recognized protection with confidence.

Sources

• North Dakota Courts — Sexual Assault Restraining Order Instructions (2024 Edition)
• North Dakota Century Code § 12.1-31-01.2 (Sexual Assault Restraining Orders)
• ND Courts — Protection Order Comparison Guide