Restraining orders for domestic violence and elder abuse.

Assembly Bill No. 561 amends California law to allow electronic filing of petitions for domestic violence restraining orders without charge. It also permits remote appearances for parties, support persons, and witnesses in these hearings, starting January 1, 2027. The bill requires the Judicial Council to develop forms for these electronic filings and mandates that superior courts post rules for remote appearances on their websites. It further allows courts to issue temporary restraining orders for elder or dependent adult abuse without notice, based on reasonable proof of harassment.

Restraining orders for domestic violence and elder abuse.

Assembly Bill No. 561 amends California law to allow electronic filing of petitions for domestic violence restraining orders without charge. It also permits remote appearances for parties, support persons, and witnesses in these hearings, starting January 1, 2027. The bill requires the Judicial Council to develop forms for these electronic filings and mandates that superior courts post rules for remote appearances on their websites. It further allows courts to issue temporary restraining orders for elder or dependent adult abuse without notice, based on reasonable proof of harassment.