DV-100: Protection, Not a Custody Zinger
DV-100 is California's request for a domestic violence restraining order. It exists because some situations need safety relief on a different track than a routine custody request for order (FL-300). Using DV-100 as a place to vent about coparenting is a serious misuse that burns credibility and delays real protection for people who need it. If you are in immediate danger, call 911, then use self-help and advocate resources for the full DV packet your county requires.
| DV-100 lane | Typical FL-300 lane |
|---|---|
| Abuse, threats, harassment under DV statutes | Schedule, travel, school choice without DV facts |
| Protection orders and related relief | Parenting plan adjustments and disclosure |
Belongs in the declaration
- Who did what, when, and where you were
- How you feared harm or were harmed
- Children present or affected, factually
Weak moves
- Renaming ordinary custody conflict as abuse without facts
- Unlabeled message dumps
- Skipping local DV clinic or self-help steps your county expects
Related guides
More California forms
General support (not California-specific)
Official DV-100
https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/jcc-form/DV-100DV-100 questions
What is DV-100 trying to accomplish?
It starts a request for a domestic violence restraining order: court-ordered protection based on abuse, threats, or harassment defined by California law, not a casual custody grievance.
When is DV-100 not the same job as FL-300?
FL-300 is a request for order in family law for custody and related issues. DV-100 is the DVRO lane with its own standards and related forms. Pick the packet that matches the harm you are describing.
What do judges want to see on the request?
Specific incidents with dates, what happened, fear or harm in plain language, and a tight exhibit list. Long character essays without dates weaken the filing.
MyCustodyCoach is not a law firm. Court rules, fees, and form versions change by county; confirm what applies to your case with official court resources or counsel you hire.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-03