When someone feels threatened, stalked, or harassed, Washington law offers several types of legal protection. However, terms like civil protection order, anti-harassment order, and restraining order are often used interchangeably—leading to confusion. In reality, these orders are very different in purpose, scope, and procedure. Here’s what you need to know if you’re seeking protection—or responding to one.

Civil Protection Orders (CPOs): When a Relationship Exists

A Civil Protection Order (CPO) is a court-issued order designed to protect someone from abuse, threats, or harassment by a person they have a qualifying relationship with. This includes:

  • Current or former romantic partners
  • Spouses or ex-spouses
  • Family or household members
  • Roommates
  • Co-parents

Washington law (RCW 7.105) recently unified several types of protection orders, allowing petitioners to request the protection most appropriate for their situation. This includes Domestic Violence Protection Orders, Sexual Assault Protection Orders, Stalking Protection Orders, and others. These orders can restrict contact, prohibit firearm possession, and even remove someone from a shared home. Violating a CPO can result in arrest and criminal prosecution.

Anti-Harassment Orders: Protection from Non-Domestic Harassment

If you are being harassed by someone who is not a family member or romantic partner—like a neighbor, coworker, or stranger—an Anti-Harassment Protection Order may be appropriate. These are civil orders that prohibit ongoing, unwanted, and threatening behavior that serves no legitimate purpose.

To get an anti-harassment order, you must show a pattern of unlawful harassment. This might include repeated messages, following you in public, or other conduct that seriously alarms or annoys you. Anti-harassment orders are often used in situations where the police cannot act, but a judge can step in to stop the behavior.

Restraining Orders: A Family Law Tool

Unlike the other types of orders, a restraining order in Washington is typically issued as part of a family law case, such as a divorce, legal separation, or parenting plan dispute. These orders are broader in scope and may:

  • Prohibit contact between parties
  • Restrict behavior involving children or property
  • Prevent the sale or transfer of assets
  • Establish temporary residential or financial arrangements

A restraining order cannot be filed on its own—it must be tied to an active family law case. If you need protection outside of divorce or custody litigation, a CPO or anti-harassment order is usually more appropriate.

Civil vs Criminal: Where No Contact Orders Fit In

While Civil Protection Orders and Anti-Harassment Orders are filed in civil court, they carry serious consequences. If someone violates the terms, they can be charged with a crime—most often under RCW 26.50.110.

By contrast, a No Contact Order is a criminal court order, issued when someone has been arrested or charged with a crime, usually domestic violence or assault. It prohibits the defendant from contacting the alleged victim while the case is pending and may remain in effect after sentencing.

Unlike civil orders, No Contact Orders are issued by the court or prosecutor—not requested directly by the victim.

Which Order Is Right for You?

Here’s a simple comparison:

  • Civil Protection Order – For domestic violence, stalking, or abuse by someone you have a close relationship with.
  • Anti-Harassment Order – For harassment by someone you don’t live with or date (e.g., neighbor or coworker).
  • Restraining Order – A tool used during divorce or custody litigation to regulate conduct or protect assets.
  • No Contact Order – A criminal order issued after arrest or as part of a criminal case.

Need Help with a Protection Order in Washington?

Whether you’re seeking legal protection or responding to a petition, these orders can have a profound impact on your life, your family, and your future. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we help clients across Washington navigate these complex and emotional matters. We fight to protect your rights—whether you’re the petitioner or respondent.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you take the next step toward safety, stability, and peace of mind.