How to Fight a Restraining Order in Hawaii

Served With a TRO in Hawaii? Don’t Panic — Prepare

Getting served with a TRO can feel like a personal attack—especially if you believe the accusations are false, exaggerated, or taken out of context. But a TRO is not a conviction. It’s a temporary court order based on one person’s claims. You have the right to challenge it at a hearing, and the court will listen to both sides. The clock is ticking: your hearing is usually scheduled within 15 days. That means now is the time to build a defense.

Understand What You're Being Accused Of

Before you can fight a restraining order, you need to understand exactly what the other person is claiming. Read the petition carefully. It may include allegations like harassment, threats, stalking, or abuse. The court is only allowed to consider the claims made in the petition, so if something isn’t listed, it shouldn’t come up in court. That can work in your favor if the petitioner has left out major pieces or exaggerated their story.

Follow the TRO — Even If You Disagree With It

Until the court rules otherwise, the temporary order is legally binding. That means no contact, no messages, and no showing up at shared places. Even if the accusations are false, violating the order before the hearing can lead to arrest and serious charges. If you’re unsure what “no contact” means in practice, we’ll explain it clearly and make sure you stay in compliance while we fight the allegations in court.

Build a Strong Case with the Right Evidence

Your defense starts with evidence. This could include:

• Texts or emails showing mutual communication or no threats
  
  
• Witnesses who can verify your side of the story
  
  
• Photos, call logs, or GPS records proving you weren’t where they said
  
  
• Police reports that show no action was taken or support your account
  
  
• Any patterns of behavior that suggest the order is being used as leverage—like in a divorce, custody battle, or neighborhood feud
  
  

Even if you think your case is “he said/she said,” don’t assume it’s hopeless. Evidence—when framed and presented correctly—can change everything.

What Happens at the Hearing – And How We Defend You

At the TRO hearing, both sides are allowed to present evidence and testimony. We’ll question the petitioner’s claims, challenge inconsistencies, and submit your side clearly and professionally. If the judge believes there isn’t enough reason to issue a long-term order, the TRO can be dissolved on the spot.



Jason is an experienced restraining order defense attorney who has handled hundreds of these hearings across Hawaii. Whether it’s a domestic situation, a misunderstanding, or a neighbor conflict, we know how to approach these cases. In some situations, we may argue for a mutual agreement without admissions. In others, we’ll take the case to full hearing and win.

What If the Judge Grants the Order?

A final Protective Order in Hawaii can last for years. It may restrict where you can go, your ability to own a firearm, or even affect job applications and background checks. Violating the order—intentionally or not—can lead to arrest. If a judge does grant the order, we’ll talk with you about next steps, including possible appeals, modifications, or long-term strategies to minimize its impact.



If we succeed and the TRO is denied, we’ll also advise how to handle any lingering public record issues.

False or Misused TROs Are More Common Than You Think

Not every petition is made in good faith. We’ve seen restraining orders filed out of spite, jealousy, or as a tactic in disputes over custody or property. Jason has the experience to recognize these patterns and expose the weaknesses in a petitioner’s story. While the courts take every claim seriously, they also know not all accusations are true—and we make sure the truth is heard.

Why You Shouldn’t Fight a TRO Alone

A restraining order case might not be criminal, but the consequences can feel just as serious. From where you live to how you see your children, your future may be shaped by this one hearing. Having a lawyer who understands Hawaii’s courts, judges, and restraining order laws gives you a real chance to set the record straight.



Jason defends clients across Oahu, Maui, and the outer islands. He knows what works—and what doesn’t—when fighting TROs in court. Don’t try to navigate this alone.

Talk to a Lawyer Before It's Too Late

Your hearing date is approaching fast. Every day counts. Contact us now for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and begin building your defense immediately.