Texas law
Domestic Violence Laws in Texas.
Texas provides Protective Orders under the Texas Protective Order Act (Tex. Fam. Code Chapter 85). Ex parte Temporary Ex Parte Protective Orders issue immediately; final Protective Orders after hearing last up to 2 years (renewable; indefinite in specified circumstances). Texas criminalizes family violence under Tex. Penal Code § 22.01(b). Federal firearm dispossession under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(8) applies. Texas also has Magistrate's Orders for Emergency Protection upon arrest for family violence.
Last verified: 2026-04-17
State law
Key Texas Statutes
Authorizes Temporary Ex Parte Protective Orders (immediate, up to 20 days) and final Protective Orders (after hearing, up to 2 years, renewable). Protected: family members, household members, persons in dating relationship.
Assault against a family or household member enhanced to third-degree felony for second offense. Choking/strangulation enhanced to third-degree felony. Continuous Violence Against the Family (§ 25.11) is a third-degree felony.
Magistrate may issue Emergency Protective Order at arraignment for family violence, stalking, trafficking, or assault — effective up to 61 days.
Stalking is a third-degree felony. Second offense: second-degree felony.
Texas Attorney General administers Crime Victim Compensation. Reimburses victims for medical, counseling, and economic losses.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Texas.
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