For people experiencing stalking, the decision to seek a restraining order, either temporary or final, often comes after prolonged fear, uncertainty, and emotional strain. Walking into court can feel intimidating, especially when someone is asked to explain deeply distressing experiences in a formal setting.
At Younity, Lisseth Dzurkoc, Senior Bilingual Court Advocate, supports individuals as they navigate this process. Her role is to help people understand what will happen in court, what options may be available, and how to prepare for a setting that can feel overwhelming.
Court Advocates do not provide legal advice or legal representation. Instead, they offer information, preparation, and support so individuals can walk into court feeling more grounded and informed.
Helping the Court Understand What’s Been Happening
Stalking cases often involve patterns of behavior rather than a single incident. Judges are looking to understand what has been happening over time, how often it occurred, and how it has affected the person seeking protection.
Lisseth works with individuals to think through how to clearly explain their experiences. Stress and trauma can make it difficult to recall details or speak confidently, especially in a courtroom. Preparation helps people feel steadier and more focused when sharing what they have been experiencing.
Why Preparation and Organization Matter
Court environments can move quickly, and many people feel nervous or anxious. Lisseth helps individuals prepare by explaining courtroom procedures, what to expect during a hearing, and how the process typically unfolds.
Court Advocates support preparation by helping individuals become familiar with the information they already have and by helping them think through how to clearly explain what has been happening. Being prepared and organized can help individuals feel more confident when speaking directly to the court.
Preparation is not about perfection. It is about helping people feel ready to speak for themselves.
Two Ways to Request a Temporary Restraining Order in New Jersey
In New Jersey, how someone requests a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) depends on timing and urgency.
During court hours, individuals typically file directly with the Superior Court, Family Division in the county where they live, where the incident occurred, or where they are staying. A judge reviews the request and may issue a TRO if immediate protection is needed.
When courts are closed or when there is immediate danger, individuals can go to their local police department. In these situations, police can help initiate a TRO by contacting an on-call judge, who must still review and approve the order.
Both paths involve judicial review, but the police route is intended for after-hours or urgent situations, while Family Court is generally the starting point during normal court operations.
Lisseth helps individuals understand which option applies to their situation and what to expect from each process.
When There Is No Prior Relationship: VASPA
Not all stalking cases involve a current or former partner. In some situations, the person causing harm may be a coworker, acquaintance, neighbor, or someone met online.
In these cases, individuals may be eligible to seek protection under the Victim’s Assistance Protective Order Act (VASPA). VASPA allows someone to request a protective order even when there is no dating or domestic relationship.
VASPA orders are filed directly through Family Court and are designed to provide protection when traditional domestic violence restraining orders do not apply. Lisseth helps individuals understand whether this option may be available and what the filing process involves.
Staying Grounded in a Stressful Environment
Court can be emotionally difficult. Many people worry that nervousness or emotion will work against them. These reactions are normal.
Lisseth helps individuals understand courtroom expectations, prepare emotionally, and take breaks when needed. People are encouraged to pause, take a breath, and speak at their own pace.
The advocate’s role is to support—not to rush—and to help people feel less alone during a challenging experience.
Support Beyond the Courtroom
In addition to preparation, Lisseth helps individuals understand what different outcomes may mean and what next steps could look like. Some people feel conflicted about pursuing a permanent restraining order, especially when children or shared connections are involved.
These concerns are common, and conversations always center safety, clarity, and wellbeing.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
Seeking protection takes courage. While the court system can feel intimidating, preparation and support can make a meaningful difference.
Through her work, Lisseth Dzurkoc helps individuals walk into court understanding what to expect and knowing they are supported every step of the way.
