L.A. County votes to overhaul restraining order system after low approval rates
Supervisors approved a plan to fund new legal aid resources and peer navigators after data showed courts dismissed 57% of domestic violence petitions.
By Gabriela Ivanov ·
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on Tuesday to reform the county's restraining order process, a move driven by data showing that courts dismissed 57% of domestic violence petitions filed in 2025.
The measure, co-authored by Supervisors Lindsey Horvath and Hilda Solis, declares gender-based and intimate partner violence a board-directed priority. It directs the county's chief executive to identify millions of dollars in new funding for self-help legal centers, courthouse clinics, and a public hotline.
The vote follows a September investigation that found only 21% of requested restraining orders in the county are granted. The report noted that the local dismissal rate for nearly 15,000 domestic violence petitions was nearly double the 29% statewide average for similar cases.
Sheriff Robert Luna acknowledged the need for change, stating that the motion is forcing his staff to examine how the department serves orders and responds to violations. Previous reporting indicated that deputies failed to locate targets of restraining orders 49% of the time in 2025. Luna said the department is working to improve these procedures.
The new motion also requires agencies to develop a plan for peer navigators who would help victims with paperwork and court delays. It calls for an assessment of emergency housing resources for individuals fleeing violence. Supervisor Janice Hahn supported the measure, emphasizing that survivors should not face additional barriers when seeking help.
Jazmin Villanueva, whose sister Nora was killed by her estranged husband in Lancaster in 2024, addressed the board to advocate for the changes. Nora had filed for a restraining order before her death. Jazmin said the new funding for in-court navigators is essential to prevent similar outcomes for other families.
The final version of the motion, introduced after initial input in October, broadens the scope of support. It now includes language directing officials to support survivors seeking protection due to stalking, credible fear of violence, or patterns of behavior causing substantial emotional distress.
