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Denise Richards and Aaron Phypers ' legal war is heating up ... the exes faced off in court for the actress' restraining order request hearing, nearly 2 months after she first accused him of domestic abuse ... and the fight is just getting started.

Monday's hearing was continued to next month because Aaron got a new lawyer, Michael Findley , and his attorney needs time to look over all the case details.

In the meantime, Denise gets to go back to the family house ... and Aaron's not allowed within 100 yards of the home.

The judge also ruled Aaron has to give Denise back a laptop she claims he stole from her ... setting a deadline by the end of the day Tuesday, even though Aaron still denies he even has Denise's device. Play video content

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