Legal Protection When You Need It Most

If you or your children are experiencing abuse, threats, or harassment, we can help you get immediate legal protection. Reed Law Group assists with both Emergency Protective Orders (EPOs) and longer-term Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs) in Bowling Green and throughout Warren County.

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What Are EPOs and DVOs?

  • EPO (Emergency Protective Order): Temporary order granted quickly, often the same day.
  • DVO (Domestic Violence Order): Longer-term order issued after a hearing, lasting up to 3 years.


These orders can restrict contact, require the abuser to leave the shared residence, and more.



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Filing for a Protective Order in Bowling Green

Protective orders can be filed through any Circuit Clerk's office, in either the county one resides or where he/she has fled to escape domestic violence. Every Kentucky county is also required to have a 24/7 protocol for filing for a DVO, even if the Circuit Clerk's office is closed. We help you prepare the petition and represent you during the DVO hearing to improve your chance of a favorable outcome.

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 Defending Against False Allegations

If you’ve been falsely accused, we can represent you in defending against an EPO or DVO. These hearings are serious, and your rights deserve a thorough defense.

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Family Law Impacts

Protective orders can impact divorce and custody cases—especially regarding parenting time and both permanent and temporary custody. We offer guidance on how these legal matters intersect

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Local Support Resources

Legal help is just one part of staying safe. We can connect you to local shelters, counseling, and support services in the Bowling Green area.

Common Questions

 FAQs about Protective Orders

  • How quickly can I get an EPO?

    Often the same day you file.

  • Do I need evidence?

    It helps. Photos, police reports, texts, and witness statements can support your case.

  • Will the order force them to move out?

    Yes, if included. EPOs and DVOs can remove the abuser from the home.

  • What if they violate the order?

    Violation of a Kentucky EPO/DVO is a criminal offense (misdemeanor), meaning a violator is subject to immediate arrest. As an alternative, a protected party can seek to have the violator held in contempt of court.

  • What are my rights if I'm a victim of domestic abuse?

    In Kentucky, there are two primary rights that are especially important for victims of domestic abuse.


    The first is to request a domestic violence protective order (or, for those in dating relationships, an interpersonal violence protective order) from a court. These orders are commonly known as EPOs or DVOs (or, TIPOs or IPOs in a dating relationship). The type of protective order that applies is determined by the specific relationship between the victim and the perpetrator. Every Kentucky county must have a protocol allowing for filing for a protective order 24/7.


    The second is to pursue criminal charges against the abuser, if a crime may have been committed. Even if the police were not called to the scene, a crime victim can seek to press charges by visiting the County Attorney in the county where the abuse occurred.


    Other rights exist, especially in connection to custody of & parenting time with children, but the impact of those rights are dependent upon many circumstances.