In Olympia and across Thurston County, no-contact and restraining orders are frequently used in divorce, legal separation, and parenting disputes—especially in situations involving allegations of domestic violence, harassment, or intimidation. While these protective orders are often linked to criminal proceedings, they are also critical tools in civil family law cases.
Whether you are seeking protection from a spouse or partner or you’ve been served with an order limiting your contact with a family member, it is important to understand the legal implications of these orders. Once entered, they can immediately impact your parenting time, access to the family home, communication rights, and financial decision-making during a divorce or custody case.
Courts in Thurston County can issue these orders quickly—sometimes without notice to the other party—if the facts support immediate intervention. Violating a no-contact or restraining order, even by accident, can result in criminal charges, contempt of court, or long-term consequences for your case.
Understanding how these orders differ, how they are issued, and how they impact your legal rights is essential to protecting yourself during a contested divorce or parenting dispute.
Understanding the Difference Between No-Contact Orders and Restraining Orders in Washington StateWhile both types of orders may prohibit contact, they originate from different legal systems and serve distinct functions.
No-Contact Orders – Criminal EnforcementA no-contact order is issued in a criminal case, often after an arrest for domestic violence, assault, or related charges. It prohibits the accused individual from contacting the protected party through any means—whether in person, by phone, text, social media, or through third parties.
Under RCW 10.99.040(2)(a):
“Because of the likelihood of repeated violence directed at those who have been victims of domestic violence in the past, when any person charged with or arrested for a crime involving domestic violence is released from custody, the court authorizing the release may prohibit that person from having any contact with the victim and others.”
These orders are common in criminal domestic violence cases and may remain in place throughout the criminal process. Violating a no-contact order is a separate criminal offense—even if the protected person initiates or consents to the contact.
Restraining Orders – Civil Relief in Family LawA restraining order is a civil order issued in the context of a family law case, such as divorce, legal separation, or a custody dispute. These orders are broader in scope and may address safety concerns, property protection, parenting issues, and financial control.
Under RCW 26.09.060:
“As a part of a motion for temporary maintenance or support or by independent motion accompanied by affidavit, either party may request the court to issue a temporary restraining order or preliminary injunction, providing relief proper in the circumstances, and restraining or enjoining any person from…”
A family court restraining order in Olympia can:
These orders are frequently requested at the start of a family law case and may be granted without prior notice to the other party in emergencies.
If you or your child are currently in danger, immediate help is available here: Victim Support
Frequently Asked Questions: No-Contact and Restraining Orders in Olympia Divorce Cases1. How do I get a restraining order during my divorce in Olympia or Thurston County?
If you are going through a divorce or parenting dispute and need protection from harassment, abuse, or threats, you can request a temporary restraining order through the family law division of Thurston County Superior Court. These orders can restrict contact, control access to the family home, and prevent the removal of children or assets.
To obtain one, you must file a motion under RCW 26.09.060, supported by an affidavit or declaration. If immediate protection is required, the court may issue the order without notifying the other party in advance.
Read more: Thurston County Superior Court – Family and Juvenile Court
2. What should I do if I’ve been served with a no-contact or restraining order in Olympia?
You must comply fully with the order from the moment you receive it. Do not contact the protected person in any form. Even unintentional or indirect communication can lead to criminal charges or findings of contempt.
You will have the opportunity to respond at a hearing. Use this time to present evidence, witnesses, or documents that support your case. An experienced family law attorney can help ensure your rights are protected.
Read more: Washington Law Help – Responding to Protection Orders
3. Can a restraining order affect custody in a Thurston County divorce?
Yes. A restraining order may significantly affect parenting time and legal custody decisions. If the court believes a parent’s behavior poses a risk to the child or the other parent, it may restrict or suspend contact, or require supervised visitation.
RCW 26.09.191 gives courts the authority to impose parenting plan limitations when there is a finding of domestic violence, child abuse, or other harmful conduct.
Read more: RCW 26.09.191 – Parenting Plan Restrictions
4. What happens if my ex violates a no-contact or restraining order during our divorce?
Violating a no-contact order is a criminal offense. Thurston County law enforcement may arrest the violator on probable cause without a warrant. Convictions can lead to fines, jail time, or additional charges.
If a civil restraining order is violated, the protected party may file a motion for contempt. The court may respond with sanctions, including financial penalties, restrictions on parenting time, or modifications to existing court orders.
Read more: Washington Law Help – Contempt in Family Law Cases
5. How long do restraining orders last in an Olympia divorce, and can they be extended?
Temporary restraining orders issued in a family law case generally last 14 days. A hearing is typically scheduled to determine whether the order should be extended or replaced with a longer-term order that remains in effect while the case is pending.
If long-term protection is necessary, a party may seek a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) under RCW 7.105. These orders can be in place for one year or longer and may be renewed before expiration.
Read more: Washington Courts – Protection Order Process
Talk to an Olympia Divorce Attorney About No-Contact and Restraining OrdersAt the Law Offices of Jason S. Newcombe, we help individuals in Olympia and throughout Thurston County handle complex divorce and custody cases involving no-contact and restraining orders. Whether you need to protect yourself or respond to a court order, our attorneys offer decades of experience in Washington family law.
Protective orders can affect your access to your children, your home, and your legal rights throughout your case. We work swiftly to ensure your safety, defend your interests, and guide you through each step of the legal process.
Schedule your free consultation today and let us help you protect your rights, your family, and your future.