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The first step in obtaining a TPO is the application process. An investigator here at the Sheriff’s Office or an advocate of Shepherds Rest Ministries Battered Women’s Shelter will assist you with the required paperwork. Shepherd’s Rest Ministries Battered Women’s Shelter contact number is 770-443-5213.
An Detective is available Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or advocate from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. to assist in this process. (Note: Persons seeking protective orders should allow at least one hour for the screening process. Late arrival may delay the petition being heard until the following business day.)
The investigator or advocate will provide the required paperwork for parties seeking temporary protective orders. Additional duties include, entering information into the state computer system and screening cases before bringing said matters before the presiding judge.
Petitions are heard (Monday through Friday, excluding holidays) in the Paulding County Judicial Circuit. (NOTE: All required paperwork must be completed and entered into the state system prior to a case being presented to a judge.)
If there is a finding by the judge that there is probable cause to believe that an act of family violence has occurred in the past and may occur in the future, the Court may order such relief as is deemed appropriate.
After the responding party has been served with a copy of the order by the Sheriff’s Office, a hearing will be held within approximately 7 to 10 days. Both parties will have the opportunity to be present at the hearing. A Judge will determine by a preponderance of the evidence if it is warranted to continue the protective order for a period of up to 12 months.