Restraining Orders for Neighbor Disputes in Hawaii

When Neighborhood Conflicts Escalate

From property line disputes in Kapolei to noise complaints in downtown Honolulu, neighbor issues can sometimes go beyond what’s reasonable. In communities across Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, people are turning to the courts when difficult neighbors cross the line into harassment. Whether it’s repeated verbal abuse, stalking behavior, or deliberate disturbances, Hawaii law gives you a path to seek relief—or defend yourself if unfairly targeted.

What Is an Injunction Against Harassment in Hawaii?

An injunction against harassment is a court order that tells someone to stop contacting, threatening, or harassing another person. Unlike domestic violence protective orders, these apply to neighbors, acquaintances, or even strangers—not family or household members.



To qualify, the petitioner must show a pattern of unwanted behavior. One rude comment or a single loud party usually won’t meet the threshold—but repeated disturbances, threatening notes, or surveillance-style behavior might. Common qualifying acts include:

• Ongoing verbal intimidation
  
  
• Unwanted approaches or surveillance
  
  
• Harassing messages or late-night disturbances
  
  
• Trespassing or property interference
  
  

A court takes these orders seriously but also evaluates whether the claims reflect true harassment or just common neighbor friction.

Filing a Restraining Order Against a Neighbor

If you’re dealing with a harassing neighbor, start by documenting every incident. Keep a written log, save emails or texts, take photos or video where appropriate, and ask neutral neighbors to serve as witnesses if needed. The stronger your evidence, the more seriously your case will be taken.



You’ll need to complete a petition for an injunction and file it with the District Court in your area. Honolulu residents would typically file at the courthouse downtown, while those on Maui or the Big Island have local court options. Jason can help ensure your petition is clear, complete, and compelling—especially important when courts want to avoid getting dragged into trivial disputes.

When You’ve Been Served With a TRO From a Neighbor

Being accused of harassment by a neighbor can be frustrating, embarrassing, and legally risky. These disputes often start small—like over a fence, barking dogs, or shared driveways—and spiral into something much bigger.



We regularly represent people who’ve been unfairly targeted in temporary restraining orders. Sometimes it’s a retaliatory filing after you’ve complained about them. Sometimes it's a misunderstanding blown out of proportion. Jason will review the claims, help you understand what’s at stake, and build a defense that aims to dissolve the TRO quickly so you can move on with your life.

Legal Solutions That Don’t Escalate the Problem

When you live near someone, you don’t always want to “win”—you want the problem to stop. We understand that neighbor TRO cases are as much about community as they are about court. Jason works toward outcomes that protect your rights while trying to preserve your peace of mind.



That may mean negotiating informal boundaries, seeking mutual agreements, or asking the court for a narrowly tailored order. But if your neighbor is truly harassing you—or using the legal system to bully—you can trust us to stand firm and push for a clear, enforceable resolution.

Take the First Step Toward Resolution

You don’t have to live in conflict. Whether you’re trying to stop a pattern of neighborhood harassment or defend yourself against unfair accusations, we’ll help you take control of the situation legally and confidently. Contact our office for a confidential consultation.