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What happened? / I was served with papers

I was served with papers.

The guides below answer what people ask first. Start at the top.

Read first · 11 min

Served With a Restraining Order in California: What to Do First

On the notice · 18 min

Domestic Violence Restraining Orders in California: The Complete Guide

This week · 14 min

How a Domestic Violence Case Affects Child Custody in California

Answers: what flips the custody presumption against you, how long it lasts, and why no conviction is needed.

This is not your situation? Go back to the six sentences, or search in your own words at the top of the page.

Clear Your Record

  • How to Get Your Record Expunged in California (Penal Code 1203.4)
  • Arrested but Never Convicted? How to Seal Your Arrest Record in California (PC 851.91)
  • Getting Your Gun Rights Back After a Felony: What Changed in 2026 (California)
  • Getting a Felony Reduced to a Misdemeanor in California (Penal Code 17(b))

DUI

  • First DUI in California: Exactly What Happens, Step by Step
  • The 10-Day Rule: Why You Have to Call the DMV After a DUI Arrest
  • DUI With a Kid in the Car: Two Charges, One Punishment, and a Plea Decision That Actually Matters

The Road Back

  • My Story to Recovery
  • That Old Party Photo: Can It Still Get You Charged?
  • Court-Ordered AA in California: What Counts, How They Check, and What If You Are Not Religious

Restraining Orders

  • Served With a Restraining Order in California: What to Do First
  • How to Get a Restraining Order in California (Step by Step)
  • Domestic Violence Restraining Orders in California: The Complete Guide

Going to Court

  • How to Dress and Act in Court (So the Judge Takes You Seriously)
  • What Happens at Arraignment in California
  • What Happens If You Miss Your Court Date in California
  • I Was Arrested Last Night in California. What Happens Now?
  • Alternatives to Custody in California: Home Detention, Work Release, Work Furlough, and Split Sentences
  • What Happens After Arraignment in California? Conditions of Release Explained
  • They Didn’t Read Me My Rights. Is My Case Dismissed?
  • I Cut Off My Ankle Monitor. What Happens Now?
  • Can a Lawyer Just Clear My Old Warrant? What Actually Happens in California

Free tools

  • Which restraining order do I need?
  • Can I clear my record?
  • First DUI, step by step
  • What happens at a DVRO hearing

For attorneys

  • For attorneys
  • Hot Topics in Law
  • Advice for Attorneys

If you need help now

  • Emergency: 911 If you are in danger right now.
  • 800-799-7233 National Domestic Violence Hotline, 24 hours, free. Or text START to 88788.
  • Your court's self-help center Free, and they will talk to anyone. Every California courthouse has one.

This site

  • All guides
  • The four restraining orders, compared
  • About and why it is anonymous
  • Contact

This site explains California criminal law in general terms. It is not legal advice, and reading it does not make me your lawyer. Your own case turns on facts only a lawyer who reads it can weigh. If you are charged with a crime, talk to a defense lawyer, or ask the court for a public defender.

Last reviewed 31 August 2026 · 24 guides · Español

© 2026 California Criminal Guide. Read our full disclaimer. Published by a licensed California attorney. This site may be considered attorney advertising in some states.