Fort Lauderdale Criminal Attorney Blog
Domestic violence injunctions (commonly called restraining orders) can have serious, life-altering consequences for those accused. While these orders are designed to protect individuals from harm, they can sometimes be issued hastily, with little evidence, creating challenging situations for the accused. As a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer, I see the far-reaching effects these injunctions have on people’s lives—from limitations on employment and housing to restrictions on child custody and firearms rights.
If you or someone you know is facing a domestic violence injunction, understanding its implications and possible defense strategies is critical.
Types of Domestic Violence Injunctions in Florida
Florida law allows for several types of injunctions under Chapter 741 of the Florida Statutes. Each serves a different purpose, but all have significant consequences if issued:
- Domestic Violence Injunctions – Protects individuals who have been victims of violence by family or household members. This injunction can apply if there has been physical abuse, threats, or harassment.
- Repeat Violence Injunctions – Issued when two or more acts of violence or stalking have been committed against the petitioner, regardless of relationship.
- Dating Violence Injunctions – Designed to protect individuals in a romantic relationship when one partner has threatened or committed violence.
- Sexual Violence Injunctions – Applicable when an individual has been a victim of sexual assault or violence, regardless of the relationship to the offender.
- Stalking Injunctions – Protects individuals who have been stalked, either physically or online.
Immediate and Long-Term Consequences of an Injunction
Broward County domestic violence injunctions impose a variety of restrictions that can impact every facet of life.
Here are some of the main ways an injunction affects the accused: Continue reading
