What is the primary purpose of a domestic violence restraining order?

The primary purpose of a domestic violence restraining order is to prohibit an abuser from contacting the victim. These orders are legal tools designed to enhance the safety of the victim by restricting the abuser's access to them, which may include prohibiting physical presence, telephone calls, or other forms of communication. This legal barrier aims to reduce the risk of further violence and provides a sense of security for the victim, allowing them to begin the process of recovery and to seek additional resources or support.

Other options, while they may have some relevance in the context of domestic violence, do not capture the essential function of a restraining order. Legal representation and counseling services certainly play critical roles in supporting victims, but they are secondary to the immediate protective purpose of a restraining order. Mediation is also generally not appropriate in cases of domestic violence, as it may place the victim at further risk. Thus, the correct answer accurately reflects the main action that restraining orders are meant to enforce in protecting individuals from domestic abuse.