In civil cases, the standard is usually a 'preponderance of the evidence' (more likely than not), which is lower than the criminal standard of 'beyond a reasonable doubt.'

Courts almost always issue a temporary Order of Protection (restraining order) at the arraignment. A 'full stay-away' order means you cannot contact the protected party at all, even if you live together. Violating this is a separate crime.

Depending on the case, you may recover compensatory damages (for actual loss), pain and suffering, and in some egregious cases, punitive damages designed to punish the wrongdoer.