How do I stop the father of my children from sending me harassing text messages and voicemails?
In Wisconsin, “harassment” is defined as “engaging in a course of conduct or repeatedly committing acts which harass or intimidate another person and which serve no legitimate purpose.” If your children’s father is repeatedly sending you text messages and leaving you voicemails that have no legitimate purpose (such as name calling and threats), then you should first file for a temporary restraining order.
You can obtain the temporary order petition forms from the county clerk of court office at the courthouse and the cost is approximately $100 (which can be waived). After you file the paperwork, a court will conduct a temporary restraining order hearing where you may be asked about the harassment. If the court decides to issue a temporary restraining order, it will be for up to 7 days.
The court will set another date to determine if a more long-term restraining order or “injunction” is necessary. An injunction could be issued for up to 4 years. In order to determine whether an injunction should be granted, the court will allow both you and the father of the children the ability to testify at the hearing. It is important to bring information such as police or medical reports that back up your story. You may only be allowed to discuss incidents you outlined in the temporary restraining order petition, so be sure whenever you fill out forms to do so completely. At the end of the hearing the court official will tell you whether the restraining order is still in effect and for how long. You will be given a copy of the court’s order. If the respondent is not at the hearing, the order will be served on him by law enforcement.
Attorney Latrice M. Milton
Managing Partner
Milton Family Law, S.C.
200 S. Executive Drive, Suite 101
Brookfield, Wisconsin 53005
Phone: (262) 782-3090
Website: www.womensdivorcerights.com
“Protecting your rights. Reshaping your future.”™
