After you file your divorce petition, it may take months to iron out all the details. In some cases, though, the person filing for divorce faces serious issues that cannot wait that long. For example, Sandy’s husband had a violent temper that caused him to lash out at their home and at her. Ben knew he was safe from his wife, Lori, but feared for their children. Finally, Maria’s husband hid their car from her, although she needed it to get to work. Fortunately, courts may provide emergency assistance for situations like these through
ex parte orders.
How to Get an Ex Parte Order
The simple answer is that you file a motion with the court asking for the relief that you need as soon as possible. However, each county in California may have its own rules and procedures for obtaining an
ex parte order. Failing to follow the rules may cause your motion to be denied.
You may file a Temporary Emergency Orders (
Ex Parte) (
Form FL-305) to request certain temporary emergency court orders. While this form may be used
throughout the state, you will need to check the rules for the county in which you file for additional information.
Hearings often are heard within 24 hours of filing the request for an
ex parte order, at which time a judge will hand down a ruling on your request for Temporary Emergency Orders.
When an Ex Parte Order Is Appropriate
Sometimes the filing spouse may need to get an issue before a judge as quickly as possible because an emergency exists. In fact, the filing party may request an
ex parte action for one or more of the following reasons:
- The spouse who filed the divorce case may be in danger.
- A child involved in the divorce case may be in danger.
- The filing party needs temporary use of a marital asset.
- The filing spouse feels that his or her property might be destroyed or damaged by the responding spouse.
Talk to an attorney
immediately if you feel an issue related to your divorce is an emergency.
It’s Complicated.
The attorneys at the Law Offices of Judy L. Burger are experienced at all phases of divorce proceedings, including
ex parte orders.
Judy Burger is a California Certified Family Law Specialist, and founder of the Law Offices of Judy L. Burger. Please call our offices at 415-293-8314 to set up an appointment with one of our attorneys. We assist clients along the Northern to Central California Coast.
