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We Speak English, Arabic, and Spanish
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Confidential Consultation
(786) 741-8376
You may need an injunction if you're in danger or need protection from someone who is threatening, violent, or harassing you. An injunction is a legal order from a judge that can stop another person from contacting you, coming near you, or taking certain actions. In Florida, injunctions are often used in domestic violence cases, but they also apply in situations involving sexual violence, repeat violence, or dating violence.
At Florida Divorce & Criminal Defense Lawyers, we assist individuals in filing for injunctive relief or defending against unfair claims. Whether you’re trying to protect yourself or respond to an injunction hearing, our team provides clear, comprehensive legal guidance throughout the entire injunction process. These cases move fast and can impact your safety, your rights, and even your professional licenses. That’s why it's important to understand when to act and what steps to take under Florida law.
An injunction is a court order that directs a person to cease specific actions or behaviors. In Florida, civil injunctions are commonly used to protect victims of violence, stalking, or harassment. The court can issue a temporary injunction to provide immediate protection while the case is pending.
In family court, people request injunctions for things like domestic violence, sexual violence, or dating violence. These cases don’t require criminal charges to move forward. An injunction can restrict contact, order the person to leave a shared home, and even affect custody of minor children. In civil court, the goal is to prevent irreparable harm and maintain the status quo while the judge considers the facts.
In Florida, people request injunctions when they feel unsafe or are at risk of harm. Injunctions help stop contact and provide legal protection in civil court. The Florida statutes permit several types of protective injunctions, depending on the situation.
A domestic violence injunction may be issued if someone has experienced physical violence or threats from a family member or partner. This includes threats of a forcible felony, such as assault or battery. If the court feels there is imminent danger, it may issue a temporary restraining order while scheduling a domestic violence injunction hearing.
Injunctions can also be used when someone is being stalked, harassed, or threatened repeatedly. Even if no sexual involvement exists, constant unwanted contact can lead to a violence injunction. Victims can file injunction paperwork through the clerk's office and request a court hearing for protection.
A person may request an injunction after two or more violent incidents against them or a close family member. These incidents must occur separately and on a frequent and continuous basis. If a person committed the same type of act more than once, the judge may issue a final injunction to prevent further harm.
Victims of sexual battery, a lewd and lascivious act, or another sexual act can seek a sexual violence injunction. They do not need to report the related incident to police first, though it can strengthen the case. Under Florida law, this applies even if the victim and abuser had no prior relationship or sexual involvement.
When parties are intimately involved, the court may issue a protective order, also known as a dating violence injunction. This applies to couples who have dated within the last 6 months, had regular interaction, or shared a relationship on a frequent and continuous basis. These cases may also involve adopted children, minor children, or shared homes.
During a domestic violence process or custody case, one spouse may request an injunction to protect themselves or their children. The judge can consider child support, past abuse, or the trial record when deciding. An injunction order in these situations can affect parenting time, custody, and even professional licenses in a criminal case.
You may need to file for an injunction if you experience any of the following:
If you’re unsure, our attorneys can provide legal advice to help you take the right steps.
If you feel at risk, you can file for an injunction through your local clerk's office. This process includes preparing legal documents, attending a preliminary injunction hearing, and possibly receiving a permanent injunction. Florida state courts carefully review each case to determine whether protection is necessary.
The process begins with an adult filing a sworn petition. The form must clearly describe the following acts of violence, threats, or harm. You must also include your relationship to the person dated, any sexual battery defined in the past, and if the parties are intimately involved.
If the court finds imminent danger, it may grant a temporary restraining order without a full hearing. This gives you fast protection until the judge can hold a full preliminary injunction hearing. The order may limit contact, distance, or behavior immediately.
Both parties typically attend a court hearing within 15 days. You must show why the injunction is necessary. The court may consider texts, threats, or any history of abuse. The judge will also inform respondents of their rights and obligations during the process.
After the hearing, the judge may deny the request or issue a permanent injunction. This order can last for a specified period or remain in effect indefinitely. The judge may also limit contact, assign custody rights, or add other restrictions to protect your safety under Florida law.
Once the court grants an injunction, it becomes legally enforceable. If the person violates the order, they may face arrest and criminal charges, which are often classified as a first-degree misdemeanor. The injunction may affect their ability to visit certain places, carry weapons, or hold certain jobs.
A permanent injunction can last for years or until modified. If children are involved, it may affect custody and parenting rights. Violating the terms may result in jail time or the maximum sentence permitted under Florida law. Orders are enforced by police, and district court judges may handle related cases if federal matters apply.
In Florida, an “injunction” is the legal term used instead of “restraining order.” Other states may refer to these as protective orders or temporary restraining orders. Florida’s version follows state civil procedure rules, not always federal law.
A preliminary injunction may stop a person from contacting or threatening another. If the threat continues, the court may issue a permanent injunction after the hearing. While federal rules also allow injunctive relief, Florida injunctions are more often used in family law and domestic cases through state courts.
At Florida Divorce & Criminal Defense Lawyers, we represent both people seeking protection and those who feel they’ve been wrongfully enjoined. Our team understands how emotional and urgent injunction cases can be, especially when parties are intimately involved or children are at risk. We approach every case with care, clear communication, and strong legal skills.
We stay up to date with Supreme Court guidance, court improvement programs, and best practices across Florida’s family and civil courts. Whether you're filing for an injunction or defending your rights, we fight for fair outcomes that protect your future and your freedom.
The court decides how long an injunction stays in place. Some final injunctions are permanent, while others last for months or years. You may return to court to modify or end it when needed.
Yes. A temporary restraining order is effective as soon as the judge signs it and the respondent is notified. It protects you until the full court hearing is held for a final decision.
Yes. If a person violates an active injunction by contacting you or showing up, police can arrest them immediately. Violations are serious and may result in jail time or a new criminal case.
Yes. Either party can ask the court to modify, extend, or dismiss the injunction. The judge will review the facts and decide if circumstances have changed enough to justify an update.
While injunctions are civil matters, they often appear in background checks. If the respondent violates the order, it could lead to criminal charges, which would be recorded.
Yes. Florida courts allow injunctions based on threats, stalking, harassment, or sexual acts, especially when parties are intimately involved. You don’t need visible injuries to request protection.
If you’re in danger or facing an unfair accusation, you need legal help fast. At Florida Divorce & Criminal Defense Lawyers, we offer free consultations and urgent support for clients dealing with domestic violence, stalking, or protection injunctions.
We move quickly to file petitions, defend against claims, and represent you at hearings. Whether you need emergency help or guidance through the full process, we’re ready to protect your rights. Contact us now to speak with an experienced injunction lawyer. Your safety, future, and peace of mind are our top priority.
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