Temporary Restraining Orders (TRO)

A temporary restraining order is a court order that prevents a person from approaching or contacting another person or organization. The court issues TROs to protect people against domestic and workplace violence, elder abuse, sexual or physical assault, harassment, or stalking.

Anyone over age 18 who is not named in the temporary restraining order may serve the TRO. The person who serves the TRO must complete the Proof of Service. This is included in the packet the court gives to the person who requests the TRO. 

You may also contact the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office to serve a TRO in San Francisco. If the person you want to serve is in another county, please contact the Sheriff of that county. 

To have the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office (SFSO) serve a TRO:

• Go in person to the SFSO headquarters at City Hall, Room 456 or submit via email (please see https://www.sfsheriff.com/services/civil-processes for further information)
• Provide two complete sets of service documents
• Complete and sign the SFSO instructions for service. Only you or your attorney may sign the instructions
• Provide a fixed address where the person to be served either lives or works
• The court waives service fees for most TRO cases. If not, please pay the service fee to SFSO.

The Sheriff’s Office will make up to three attempts to deliver your restraining order. We do not serve restraining orders on weekends and holidays. SFSO will provide proof of service showing whether or not we delivered your order. If we are unsuccessful, you may refile your restraining order with the courts.