Navigating Protection Orders in Thurston County: Know Your Rights, Protect Your Safety

Gian Adato
Attorney At Law

Navigating Protection Orders in Thurston County: Know Your Rights, Protect Your Safety
Feeling unsafe because of threats, harassment, or domestic violence is frightening — and no one should face that alone. If you live in Thurston County, Washington, there are legal tools designed to help protect you: Protection Orders.
At Soriano Law LLC, our Montesano-based legal team helps clients across Thurston County understand their rights, navigate complex court processes, and take fast, effective legal action to stay safe. Whether you need to stop harassment, protect your children, or leave an abusive relationship, we’re here to help you take the first step toward safety and peace of mind.
Relevant reads are also here to help and guide you:
Restraining Orders in Washington State: Important Things To Know
What Are Immediate Restraining Orders?
Domestic Violence Protection Order: Learn More
What Is a Protection Order?
A Protection Order is a standalone civil order that is meant to stop or prevent abuse, harassment, stalking or similar conduct.
On the other hand, a Retraining Order is a type of injunction issued within another open case, such as divorce, legal separation, parentage, other civil cases like contracts, property use, parenting actions.
Types of Protection Orders in Washington State
Each type of protection order addresses a different kind of threat or harm: At Soriano Law LLC, we regularly assist clients with all forms of protection and restraining orders in Seattle, Cowlitz, Thurston County and more, including:
- Domestic Violence Protection Order – for abuse or threats from a spouse, partner, ex, or family member.
Example: A Thurston County client contacted us after her ex-partner repeatedly showed up at her home and workplace. We filed an emergency DVPO that same day — the judge granted immediate protection and extended it for a full year after the hearing. - Sexual Assault Protection Order – for survivors of sexual assault, regardless of relationship.
- Vulnerable Adult Protection Order – to protect adults from abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
- Anti-Harassment Protection Order – for harassment from non-family members, such as neighbors or coworkers.
- Stalking Protection Order – for persistent, unwanted following or monitoring.
A Restraining Order’s purpose is to maintain the status quo or prevent harm while the case is ongoing.
How to File for a Protection Order in Thurston County
Here’s a quick overview of the process:
- Complete the Petition — Detail what happened, with dates and facts. You can find forms at the Thurston County Clerk’s Office.
- File the Petition — Submit your forms at:
Thurston County Superior Court, 2000 Lakeridge Dr SW, Bldg. 2, Olympia, WA 98502
- Request a Temporary Order — A judge may issue a Temporary Protection Order the same day if you’re in immediate danger.
- Serve the Respondent — The sheriff or a process server delivers official notice to the other party.
- Attend the Hearing — Usually within 14 days. The judge reviews evidence and may issue a Full Protection Order, which can last a year or longer.
There’s no filing fee for Domestic Violence Protection Orders.
Why Work With Soriano Law LLC?
While you can file on your own, having an experienced family law attorney in Thurston County ensures your petition is complete, persuasive, and filed correctly. Small mistakes can delay or even weaken your case — especially when you’re dealing with an abusive or manipulative respondent.
✅ Strategy — Choosing the right type of protection order for your situation.
✅ Evidence — Organizing proof like messages, photos, or witness statements.
✅ Court Representation — Presenting your case clearly and confidently.
✅ Procedural Support — Making sure all paperwork is filed correctly and deadlines are met.
Our goal is simple: to protect your safety, your rights, and your peace of mind. We’re here to protect your rights — and your peace of mind.
Real Support When You Need It Most
Our firm has helped hundreds of clients across Thurston County and Western Washington file and defend against protection orders. We know how emotional and urgent these cases can be — and we act fast.
If you’re being threatened, harassed, or stalked, you don’t have to go through it alone. We’ll walk with you through every step — from filing your petition to standing beside you in court.
Take Action for Your Safety Today
If you’re in immediate danger, call 911.
If you need legal guidance, contact Soriano Law LLC for a confidential consultation. We’ll help you file your protection order in Thurston County and start building a path toward safety and stability.
📞 Call Soriano Law LLC today to schedule your FREE consultation.
You deserve to feel safe. We’ll help you protect that right.