By Anthony I. Shin, Esq. | Civil Litigation | Protective Orders | Shin Law Office
Protective Orders Across Counties | Leesburg & Fairfax Jurisdiction Guide
If you’ve ever tried to file a protective order and were told, “That happened in another county,” you’re not alone.
Jurisdiction: the legal authority a court has to hear your case can make an already stressful situation feel even more complicated.
I’ve seen clients from Leesburg, Ashburn, and Fairfax County who faced real danger but got lost in the system simply because the abuse or harassment didn’t occur in just one place.
I want to clear this up, because when your safety is at risk, you shouldn’t have to waste time figuring out which courthouse to walk into.
Where Did It Happen And Why Does It Matter
In protective order cases, the court needs jurisdiction over either the person you’re filing against or the place where the abuse occurred. So if the harassment happened in Fairfax but you live in Loudoun, either county might have jurisdiction—but timing, details, and how things are documented can make or break your petition.
I’ve worked with people who were stalked online in Leesburg, then confronted in person near Tysons.
We had to act fast and file in the jurisdiction that gave us the strongest legal ground and the fastest hearing.
These strategic decisions matter, especially when every hour counts.
What If the Abuse Crosses County Lines?
If abuse spans multiple counties, we take a hard look at:
- Where the abusive act occurred
- Where the respondent (the accused) lives
- Where the petitioner (you) live
- Where the danger is ongoing
Virginia law allows protective orders to be filed in any jurisdiction that has a meaningful connection to the incident. But judges want clarity. That’s where I come in—making sure your story is presented with the details that count legally, not just emotionally.
What If You’re Denied in One County?
Don’t give up. I’ve helped clients refile in the proper venue or submit appeals when their case was dismissed for “lack of jurisdiction.” Often, they were given no real explanation—just a rushed decision and an overwhelming feeling of helplessness. You deserve better.
How I Can Help You Navigate the Maze
My job is to eliminate the guesswork. I’ll help you determine:
- Where to file
- What evidence to bring
- What kind of order you need (emergency, preliminary, or permanent)
Whether you’re being harassed across county lines, stalked at work, or threatened online by someone who lives in another jurisdiction, I’ll help you make the legal system work for you—not confuse or delay you.
If your safety or peace of mind is being threatened, don’t wait.
Contact me today at Shin Law Office, and let’s talk about your options. Your safety shouldn’t depend on ZIP codes or court confusion.
Call Shin Law Office at 571-445-6565 or book online today!
— Anthony I. Shin, Esq.
Principal Attorney | Shin Law Office
