Guide · 6 min read
How orders of protection work in Nashville
An order of protection is a civil court order that tells someone to stay away from you. In Tennessee they are available to victims of domestic abuse, stalking and sexual assault. Here is how the process works.
- Written byOur Nashville detectives
- UpdatedOctober 25, 2026
- Reading time6 minutes
- Related serviceStalking & harassment
- Victims of domestic abuse, stalking or sexual assault can petition for an order of protection in Tennessee.
- A judge can issue a temporary (ex parte) order quickly, followed by a hearing where both sides can appear.
- Dated, specific evidence of contact, threats and following makes a petition stronger.
Who can ask for one
Tennessee’s order of protection statutes allow a victim of domestic abuse, stalking or sexual assault to petition the court. Stalking and sexual assault victims do not need to have a family or dating relationship with the respondent.
Petitioners are not required to pay a fee to file.
How the process works
- You file a petition describing what happened, with dates and details.
- A judge can grant a temporary ex parte order right away if the petition shows an immediate danger.
- A hearing is set, generally within about 15 days, where both sides can present evidence.
- If the judge grants the order, it typically lasts up to one year and can be extended.
In Nashville, the Metro Office of Family Safety’s Family Safety Center can help petitioners through the process and connect them with advocates.
Evidence that helps
- A dated log of every contact, sighting and incident
- Screenshots of texts, calls, emails and social media messages, with dates visible
- Photos of property damage or a tracker found on your vehicle
- Names of witnesses who saw incidents
- Police report numbers
Keep originals. Don’t edit screenshots or cut messages out of context.
How a detective can help
When the harassment is anonymous, or the person denies it, a detective can help identify who is responsible and document following or surveillance of you. See our stalking and harassment investigations.
If you are in danger
Call 911. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233. Use the quick-exit button on this site if you need to leave the page fast.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every situation is different; talk to a Tennessee attorney about your case. Last reviewed October 25, 2026.
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How much does an order of protection cost in Tennessee?
Petitioners are not required to pay a filing fee.
Can I get an order of protection against a stranger who is stalking me?
Yes. In Tennessee, stalking victims do not need a family or dating relationship with the respondent.
How long does an order of protection last?
Typically up to one year after the hearing, and it can be extended.
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