DVPO Meaning – Domestic Violence Protection Order
In Washington State, DVPO stands for Domestic Violence Protection Order.
It’s a civil court order designed to protect someone from harm or threats by a family member, intimate partner, or household member. A DVPO in Washington can order the abuser to:
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Stay away from the victim’s home, work, or school
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Stop contacting or harassing the victim
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Surrender firearms and weapons
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Move out of a shared residence
Key points for Washington DVPOs:
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They can be temporary (until a court hearing) or full orders lasting up to five years (and can be renewed).
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They are available to current or former spouses, dating partners, people who live together, and even certain relatives.
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Filing is free for survivors in most cases.
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Violating a DVPO is a criminal offense.
As of July 2022, Washington State updated its laws to simplify protection orders into one process (under RCW 7.105). This means that DVPOs, sexual assault protection orders, stalking protection orders, etc., now follow a unified set of rules and forms — but DVPOs are still a specific type tied to domestic violence.
In Washington State, obtaining a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) involves several key steps. Here’s a concise guide to help you through the process: You can request a DVPO if you have experienced domestic violence from someone with whom you have a qualifying relationship. This includes current or former spouses or domestic partners, individuals with whom you share a child, dating partners, or family/household members Begin by filling out the necessary forms: Petition for Protection Order (PO 001) Law Enforcement and Confidential Information Form (PO 003) Temporary Protection Order and Hearing Notice (PO 030) (if seeking immediate protection) These forms are available online through the Washington Courts website or can be completed using the guided interview on LegalAtoms. Submit your completed forms to the appropriate court. In many counties, such as King and Pierce, you can file in person, by email, or through an online portal like LegalAtoms. There is no filing fee for DVPOs in Washington State .
After filing, a judge will review your petition. If you requested a temporary order, a hearing may be scheduled promptly, often the same day. A full hearing will typically occur within 14 days, where both you and the respondent can present evidence . The respondent must be formally served with the protection order documents. The court will arrange for law enforcement or a process server to deliver these papers. The order becomes enforceable once the respondent has been served. Once granted, a DVPO prohibits the respondent from contacting or approaching you. The order can last up to one year or longer, depending on the judge’s decision. Violations of the order can lead to criminal charges.How do I get a DVPO in Washington?
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Step 2: Complete the Required Forms
Step 3: File Your Petition
Step 4: Attend the Hearing
Step 5: Service of the Order
Step 6: Enforcement and Duration
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