Domestic Violence Restraining Order (SB741) Bill Passed

Senate Bill 741, penned by Senator Dave Min (D-Irvine), has successfully made its way through California’s legislature and is now awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom’s approval. The bill aims to put an end to the misuse of litigation strategies that have been exploited by domestic abuse offenders in recent times. This marks another significant stride in California’s continuous mission to safeguard survivors of domestic violence.  

This bill prohibits discovery under the Civil Discovery Act for the purposes of the Domestic Violence Prevention Act unless a court approves a discovery request due to the requesting party showing good cause, as outlined. The court, when deciding whether to allow discovery, must consider factors such as the importance, relevance, and necessity of the information sought.  

The court is authorized to delay the hearing’s start or begin the hearing to take evidence and then postpone it to allow one or more discovery methods if it finds good cause and approves a discovery request. The court must restrict and manage any allowed discovery to the least intrusive methods, as defined. The bill also includes related intent statements, findings, and declarations. 

The University of California, Irvine Law’s Domestic Violence Clinic is the sponsor behind SB 741. Professor Stoever, the clinic director, lauded the bill’s progression, noting that the bill can, “guard [those seeking civil domestic restraining orders] from the weaponization of discovery currently used to intimidate survivors from pursuing protection and to delay relief. She further notes that to date, “California has lacked law on discovery pertaining to the factual and legal context of DVROs, and we’ve been witness to alarming case examples from our clinic and across the state.” 

The bill highlights critical findings about the extent of the domestic violence crisis in California. It notes that more than one-third of California women and one-seventh of men experience intimate partner violence, stalking, or sexual abuse. SB 741 also underscores the heightened vulnerability of sexual and gender minorities, who encounter domestic violence rates equal to or greater than their cisgender and heterosexual peers.  

SB 741 aims to mitigate the risk of harassment and intimidation faced by survivors of domestic violence, avoid unnecessary delays in dealing with DVRO requests, and ensure discovery is only used when necessary and for good reason. This will reduce the cost and burden of discovery for parties and promote judicial economy. 

A DVRO is a legal protection measure issued by the court to safeguard individuals who have been victims of domestic violence. This court order requires the alleged abuser to stay a certain distance away from the victim, effectively preventing any form of contact, including physical, verbal, or electronic communication. It may also restrict the abuser from visiting certain places, such as the victim’s home, workplace, or school.  

The DVRO is designed to provide immediate safety and peace of mind for victims, offering legal recourse if the order is violated. The specific terms and conditions can vary based on the jurisdiction and the unique circumstances of each case. 

At Fenchel Family Law PC, our experienced attorneys understand the complexities and emotional challenges inherent in cases involving domestic violence. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal assistance to clients seeking protection through restraining orders or navigating a divorce in the context of domestic violence.  

Our team can guide you through the process of filing for protective orders, ensuring that your safety and rights are prioritized at every stage. In the event of a divorce, we can work tirelessly to secure a fair resolution that considers the impact of domestic violence on issues like custody, visitation, and asset division. Trust Fenchel Family Law PC to stand by your side, offering the expert legal support you need during these difficult times. 

Schedule an initial consultation today. Call (415) 805-9069.