When most people think of a dating relationship, they picture face-to-face interactions like going out to dinner, spending time together, and forming a physical connection. But in today’s digital world, romantic relationships are able to develop entirely through text messages, social media, or dating apps, without the parties ever meeting each other in person.
This shift in how we connect raises an important legal question: Can you get a DVRO in California against someone you’ve only had an online relationship with?
In the sections below, we’ll break down how California domestic violence law defines a dating relationship; how electronic communication like texts and DMs are treated under the law and what legal options are available if you’re experiencing online harassment from someone you’ve only interacted with virtually.
What Is Considered a “Dating Relationship” Under California Law?
Under California Family Code § 6210, a “dating relationship” is defined as:
“Frequent, intimate associations primarily characterized by the expectation of affection or sexual involvement.”
This is a broad definition that allows for flexibility in how a relationship is formed. Notably, it does not require physical meetings.
California courts have emphasized that a “dating relationship” does not need to be long-term, physically intimate, or even involve in-person contact to be legally valid. What’s really important is whether the communication involved frequent, emotionally significant interactions of an affectionate or romantic nature.
That said, casual texting or friendly conversations typically won’t meet the legal standard. When establishing a valid dating relationship, California courts specifically look for communication showing emotional closeness or mutual romantic expectations.
Can a “Dating Relationship” Be Conducted Entirely Over Text?
Yes. A relationship that exists solely through digital communication can qualify under California Family Code § 6210, as long as the messages show frequent, emotionally intimate contact and a mutual expectation of romance or sexual involvement.
The court is more interested in the totality of the evidence than the method of communication.
Can Text Messages Be Considered Abuse Under the Domestic Violence Prevention Act (DVPA)?
Yes. Under the Domestic Violence Prevention Act (DVPA), abuse is not limited to physical harm. It also includes:
- Harassment
- Threatening behavior
- Emotional abuse
- Coercive control
- Conduct that disturbs someone’s peace
California Family Code § 6320 specifically allows courts to issue DVROs based on harassing or threatening electronic communications, including text messages, emails, and DMs, even when no physical violence occurred.
This has been affirmed by California courts in cases like Burquet v. Brumbaugh, where the court upheld a DVRO based solely on repeated, inappropriate text messages that disturbed the petitioner’s peace.
If someone is sending you threatening, emotionally abusive, or excessive messages that damage your peace of mind, you may have grounds to request a Domestic Violence Restraining Order in California, even if all communication was online.
What If the Parties Have Never Met in Person?
California law does not require the parties to have ever met in person to establish a dating relationship for the purposes of seeking a DVRO. A relationship built entirely through digital communication can still qualify if it reflects emotional closeness and romantic intent.
It is important to remember that courts draw a clear line between meaningful digital relationships and casual chatting. A couple of flirty messages or friendly exchanges on a dating app won’t meet the definition of a dating relationship. There must be signs of emotional intimacy or romantic expectation in order to successfully obtain a DVRO for online harassment.
When Does Texting Support a DVRO?
Text messages can support a DVRO in California if:
- The communication shows a pattern of emotional or romantic involvement.
- The messages include threats, harassment, or emotionally abusive content.
- The sender refuses to stop contacting you after being asked to stop.
It’s not just about what the messages say, but how often they were sent, and in what context.
If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, reach out to an experienced California DVRO attorney who can review your communication history and help determine your legal options.
What Protections Can a California DVRO Provide?
If granted, a California Domestic Violence Restraining Order can provide strong legal protections to restore your peace of mind, including:
- Prohibiting the restrained person from contacting you (by text, phone, email, or social media).
- Ordering them to stay away from your home, workplace, or school.
- Preventing them from owning or possessing firearms.
These protections apply regardless of whether the abuse occurred online or in person, as California law recognizes that digital harassment can be just as harmful as physical violence.
How Our Attorneys Can Help
At the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we understand that modern relationships take many forms, and that online abuse is just as serious. If you’re experiencing text message harassment in California or believe you may be eligible for a DVRO based on digital abuse, we’re here to help.
Our legal team can:
- Review your digital messages to determine if a dating relationship legally exists.
- Help gather evidence such as texts, emails, or screenshots.
- File a Domestic Violence Restraining Order on your behalf.
- Represent you in court.
- Defend you if you’ve been wrongfully accused of online harassment.
Whether you’re seeking protection for yourself or need legal defense against a DVRO, we’re committed to advocating for your wellbeing and protecting your rights.
Contact a California DVRO Attorney Today
California law recognizes that online relationships are real relationships. If you’re being harassed, emotionally abused, or threatened by someone you’ve had a digital romantic connection with, you have the right to legal protection.
Call the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney today to schedule a confidential consultation. Our experienced attorneys will listen to your story, clearly explain your options, and help you take the next step toward feeling safe, secure, and protected.
