In Los Angeles, conflicts with neighbors, coworkers, roommates, or even strangers can escalate to the point where legal protection becomes necessary. When the person harassing you is not a family member or intimate partner, you may qualify for a Civil Harassment Restraining Order (CHRO) under California Code of Civil Procedure § 527.6.
But what exactly is civil harassment—and how do courts define it? Let’s break it down in plain English, with clear examples, to help you understand your rights and options.
What Is the Legal Definition of Civil Harassment?
Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 527.6(b), civil harassment is defined as:
- Unlawful violence (such as assault, battery, or stalking) but not lawful self defense or defense of others; or
- Credible threat of violence - a knowing and willful statement or course of conduct that would place a reasonable person in fear for their safety, or the safety of their immediate family, and serves no legitimate purpose.
- A knowing and willful course of conduct directed at a specific person that seriously alarms, annoys, or harasses and serves no legitimate purpose(such as following, stalking, or harassing communication) .
Examples of Civil Harassment
Still not sure what qualifies as civil harassment? Here are a few real-life scenarios:
- Neighbor Threats and Intimidation - A neighbor frequently yells threats over the fence, follows you to your car, and leaves intimidating notes on your door. You begin to feel unsafe in your own home. This is civil harassment if the threats are repeated and place you in fear.
- Unwanted Messages from a Former Friend - An ex-friend who’s angry about a falling out sends you dozens of emails and text messages daily. Some include insults, others suggest they’re “watching” you or know where you go. This behavior qualifies if the messages cause fear or emotional distress and serve no lawful purpose.
- Online Harassment from a Stranger - Someone you met once at an event starts tagging you in disturbing social media posts and creates fake accounts to send you harassing messages. Online stalking or cyber harassment can absolutely fall under civil harassment laws.
- Coworker Stalking Behavior - A colleague follows you after work, waits near your home, and frequently shows up at places you go—despite being asked to stop.This could be both civil harassment and stalking, depending on the conduct and frequency.
Civil Harassment vs. Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
Many people confuse Civil Harassment Restraining Orders (CHROs) with Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVROs), but the two apply in very different situations.
CHRO | DVRO |
Applies to non-close relationships (neighbors, coworkers, strangers, etc.) | Applies to spouses, ex-spouses, dating partners, co-parents, or close family |
Filed under CCP § 527.6 | Filed under Family Code § 6200 |
No domestic or familial tie needed | Requires domestic or intimate relationship |
So, if the person harassing you is a romantic partner, spouse, sibling, parent, or cohabitant, then a DVRO may be the appropriate legal route.
What Happens If You Violate a CHRO?
If someone violates a civil harassment restraining order:
- They can be arrested and charged with a misdemeanor under Penal Code § 273.6
- They may face jail time (up to 1 year), fines, or both
- Future violations may lead to felony charges, especially if violence or stalking is involved
Our Los Angeles Restraining Order Attorneys Can Help
At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, we’ve helped countless clients in Los Angeles by:
- Filing and obtaining Civil Harassment Restraining Orders;
- Defend against false or exaggerated accusations of harassment;
- Navigate complex restraining order hearings with confidence.
Whether you're a victim seeking protection or someone who’s been wrongfully accused, our experienced attorneys are ready to guide you through the process. We service primarily Los Angeles County. Call for an in-person at 213-481-6811 and learn why we can help you.