Where should an Ex-Parte order be filed?

• A. Where the respondent resides
• B. Where the victim resides
• C. The court's clerk
• D. The police station

Answer: (A)

Ex parte orders are temporary protective measures issued without the respondent’s participation, intended to provide immediate safety while a full hearing is arranged. The filing should occur in the court that has proper jurisdiction over the person the order will bind, which is typically the county where the respondent resides. This jurisdiction ensures the court can legally issue the order against the respondent and coordinate swift service through the local authorities. Filing in the respondent’s residence county also helps ensure the temporary order is enforceable statewide and that a timely hearing can be set. Filing elsewhere, such as merely at the victim’s location or a police station, would not establish the necessary legal authority over the respondent.