Before You Start
If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If it is safe to do so, consider speaking with a victim advocate before filing for a protective order or making major changes. An advocate can help you safety plan and understand available resources.
Arizona Law Notes
Arizona court resources encourage people seeking an Order of Protection to speak with a victim advocate before filing because an advocate can help with safety planning and explain how an order works and how it is served. AZPOINT also includes quick-exit and safety resources.
Interactive Checklist
Work Through the Steps
Selections are saved on this device.
1. Emergency Safety
0 of 7 complete
2. Emergency Contacts
0 of 8 complete
3. Important Documents
0 of 10 complete
4. Children
0 of 7 complete
5. Pets
0 of 5 complete
6. Money and Transportation
0 of 7 complete
7. Digital Safety
0 of 8 complete
8. Protective Order Preparation
0 of 8 complete
FAQs
Common Questions
What should be in a domestic violence safety plan?
A safety plan should include emergency contacts, safe places, documents, money, transportation, children, pets, digital safety, and legal protection options.
Should I file an Order of Protection before leaving?
It depends on safety. In some cases, filing first helps. In other cases, service of the order can increase risk. A victim advocate or attorney can help you plan.
Can an Arizona protective order include pets?
Arizona law allows courts to grant exclusive care, custody, or control of certain animals and order the defendant to stay away from them in appropriate Order of Protection cases.
What if my phone or internet is monitored?
Use a safer device, such as one at a trusted friend's home, workplace, library, or advocate's office. Clearing browsing history may not be enough.
Talk With Best Law Firm
Ready to Discuss Your Situation?
Safety comes first. If you need legal protection connected to divorce, custody, or an Order of Protection, our Arizona family law team can help you take informed steps.
This checklist is for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Arizona family law can be fact-specific, and court procedures may vary by county. If you are preparing to file, respond, negotiate, mediate, or appear in court, speak with an Arizona family law attorney about your situation.