EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — While El Paso County offices will be closed for the holidays, Protective Order Unit will remain open via phone for domestic violence victims, the El Paso County Attorney's Office said in a press release. The County Attorney's Office says it will be closed from Dec. 23 through Jan. 2. However, its Protective Order Unit will be open from 8 a.m. through 5 p.m. via phone during the following days: Monday, Dec. 23 Thursday, Dec. 26 Friday, Dec. 27 Monday, Dec. 30 Domestic violence victims can apply for a protective order from the privacy of their homes by visiting a 24/7 portal https://apps.epcountytx.gov/CAProtectiveOrder/submission. For more information about the application process or general inquiries, call (915) 273-3242. The County Attorney's Office says a protective order is a "civil court order signed by a judge that directs an abuser to stop specific actions, such as contacting the victim or approaching their home, workplace, or other designated areas. Violating a Protective Order is a criminal offense." "The holiday season can be a particularly stressful time for some families, and incidents of domestic violence can unfortunately increase. The El Paso County Attorney’s Office wants to assure the community that help is available even during the holiday closure. Our Protective Order Unit will be available to receive applications and provide assistance to those seeking protection from abuse," the County Attorney's Office said.