What is a restraining order, and how is it served?

A restraining order is a legal order issued by a court to protect an individual by restricting another person's behavior, typically in cases involving harassment, domestic violence, or threats. The issuance of a restraining order signifies that the court recognizes the need to provide immediate protection to an individual, often referred to as the petitioner, from potential harm or harassment from another party, known as the respondent.

When it comes to serving a restraining order, this process is similar to the service of other legal documents, meaning that it must be formally delivered to the defendant to ensure that they are aware of the order and its stipulations. This is vital, as the defendant must be informed of the order to comply with it and understand the legal consequences of any violations. The service of the restraining order can be done in various ways, including personal service, where a process server delivers the document in person, or through registered mail in some cases, depending on the jurisdiction's rules.

The other options do not accurately represent how a restraining order functions within the legal system. It is not limited to email communication since formal legal processes require physical documentation to ensure proper service and acknowledgment by the parties involved. Additionally, it is not merely a requirement to call the defendant, as the