While studies have shown that protection orders do help reduce violence overall, such an order, also called a restraining order, will not necessarily protect you front your abuser. While a protection order is in many cases an important legal step to take in a domestic abuse case or divorce case, it is, at the end of the day, simply a piece of paper that will not guarantee your safety. After obtaining a protection order, be sure to take further steps to ensure your physical safety: go somewhere safe where your abuser may not know how to find you, alert your friends, relatives, and employer to your situation, and take advantage of local domestic violence resources. 
Molly B. Kenny
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Divorce and Child Custody Attorney Serving Bellevue and Seattle Washington