In Renton and throughout King County, no-contact orders and restraining orders are critical legal tools used in divorce, legal separation, and child custody proceedings—especially in situations involving allegations of abuse, threats, or harassment. While many people associate these orders with criminal court, they also play a key role in civil family law cases, where they serve to protect individuals and stabilize volatile circumstances.
Whether you are seeking court protection from a spouse, former partner, or co-parent, or you've been served with an order limiting your ability to contact your family, it’s essential to understand the legal function and potential impact of these orders during your divorce.
Courts in King County frequently issue these orders to protect spouses, domestic partners, children, or household members. In the family law context, these orders can have immediate and far-reaching consequences, including limitations on parenting time, residence in the family home, access to shared property, and communication between parties.
Violating the terms of these orders, even unintentionally, can result in arrest, criminal charges, or contempt of court. Whether you're seeking relief or responding to an order, it’s vital to understand the differences between no-contact orders and restraining orders, how they are issued, and what they mean for your case.
Understanding the Difference Between No-Contact Orders and Restraining Orders in Washington StateThough often confused, no-contact orders and restraining orders arise under distinct legal frameworks and serve different functions in Washington State divorce and family law cases.
1. No-Contact Orders – Issued in Criminal CasesA no-contact order is issued as part of a criminal proceeding, typically following an arrest for domestic violence, assault, or similar charges. These orders prohibit the accused from having any form of contact with the protected party—whether in person, by phone, text, email, social media, or through third parties.
As explained in 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.”
Read the full statute – RCW 10.99.040
No-contact orders are common conditions of release or sentencing in domestic violence cases. They can only be lifted or modified by the criminal court, and violating the order is a criminal offense, even if the protected party initiates contact or gives consent.
2. Restraining Orders – Issued in Divorce and Civil Family Law CasesA restraining order is a civil protection order issued in a divorce, legal separation, or child custody case. These orders are broader than no-contact orders and may address issues like property access, financial control, temporary custody, and harassment prevention.
Under RCW 26.09.060, either party may request a restraining order by motion and affidavit. The statute states:
“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…”
Read the full statute – RCW 26.09.060
Examples of what a restraining order can prohibit:
Restraining orders are often issued at the start of a family law case to preserve stability and ensure safety. They may be granted with or without notice to the other party, depending on the circumstances.
If you or your child is currently in danger due to domestic violence or harassment, click here for immediate victim support.
Frequently Asked Questions: No-Contact and Restraining Orders in Renton Divorce Cases1. How do I get a restraining order (protection order) during my divorce in Renton or King County?
If you’re going through a divorce or custody case in King County and need protection from threats, abuse, or harassment, you can request a temporary restraining order (TRO) through your family law case. These orders can prevent your spouse from contacting you, entering the home, interfering with property or finances, or removing children from school.
Under RCW 26.09.060, you can file a motion for a restraining order along with your divorce petition or as part of a motion for temporary orders. The court can issue these orders with or without notice and often does so on the same day, particularly when immediate safety concerns are raised.
Helpful resource: King County Superior Court – Family Law Instructions
2. How do I respond if I’ve been served with a no-contact or restraining order in King County?
If you've been served with a no-contact or civil restraining order, do not violate its terms. Even if you believe the order is unnecessary or based on false claims, you must comply until a court modifies or terminates it. Violations can lead to arrest, contempt of court, or criminal prosecution.
You have the right to a hearing where you can present your side of the story. Bring any relevant documentation, witness testimony, or legal counsel. Ignoring the hearing could result in the order being extended or made permanent.
Helpful resource: Washington Law Help – Responding to Protection Orders
3. Can a restraining order affect child custody or parenting time in my Renton divorce?
Yes. Restraining orders—especially those involving allegations of abuse or domestic violence—can directly impact parenting plans and residential schedules. Courts in King County are required to consider a history of domestic violence or coercive control when determining custody arrangements.
Under RCW 26.09.191, a parent’s rights may be limited or restricted if the court finds conduct that endangers the child or the other parent. This could include supervised visitation or temporary loss of residential time.
Helpful resource: RCW 26.09.191 – Parenting Plan Restriction
4. What happens if my ex violates a no-contact or restraining order during our Renton divorce?
Violating a no-contact order is a criminal offense and may result in arrest, jail time, or additional charges, even if the contact was minor or initiated by the protected party. Police in King County can arrest the violator without a warrant if they have probable cause to believe the order was breached.
If a civil restraining order is violated, the protected party may file a motion for contempt in the family law case. The violating party could face court sanctions, including fines, attorney’s fees, or modifications to the parenting plan.
Helpful resource: Washington Law Help – Contempt in Family Law Cases
5. How long do restraining orders last in a Washington divorce, and can they be extended?
Temporary restraining orders issued during a divorce case generally last 14 days unless extended by court order. After a hearing, the court may enter temporary orders that remain in effect until the divorce is finalized.
In cases involving long-term risk, a party may seek a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) under RCW 7.105, which can last one year or longer and may be renewed before it expires.
Helpful resource: Washington Courts – Protection Order Process
Talk to a Renton Divorce Lawyer Who Understands No-Contact and Restraining OrdersAt the Law Offices of Jason S. Newcombe, we represent clients in Renton and throughout King County who are navigating high-conflict divorce and custody cases involving no-contact and restraining orders. Whether you are seeking court protection or defending against an unjustified order, we bring over 50 years of combined experience to help you take control of your case.
These orders can affect where you live, when you see your children, and how your divorce unfolds. We work swiftly and strategically to protect your legal rights and ensure your voice is heard in court.
Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward protecting your family, your future, and your legal standing under Washington State law.