Domestic Violence

Overview

---

The Domestic Violence Intake unit provides assistance to those affected by domestic, repeat, sexual, dating, and stalking violence who are in need of obtaining an injunction for protection. Injunctions are commonly referred to as “restraining orders”.

To obtain a Restraining Order, you may eFile your pleadings utilizing the ePortal filing system or appear in person at one of the following Domestic Violence Service Locations, excluding Courthouse Holidays. The decision is made the same day, and the Petitioner/Counsel is responsible for obtaining a copy of the ruling along with all associated documents.

In the interest of safety, it is suggested that you seek safe shelter throughout this process, as your safety is the most important factor.

Guidelines for Staying Safe

---

In the interest of safety, it is suggested that you seek safe shelter throughout this process, as your safety is the most important factor.

If a Domestic Violence incident occurs after hours, please refer to the After Hours phone number in the Contact Information section.

• CALL 911 IF YOU ARE IN IMMEDIATE DANGER!
• CONTACT WOMEN IN DISTRESS (ALSO ACCEPT MEN) 24 hours a day by calling (954) 761-1133. They can provide emergency shelter and counselling for victims of abuse and their children.
• Call the Florida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
• Call the Abuse Hotline at 1-800-96-ABUSE

Your abuser may monitor your internet use. If you have reason to believe your computer is not secure; you may wish to use a computer your abuser does not access. Also, if you have reason to believe that your phone may be traced, vehicle, or any other electronic device, you may temporarily want to look into other means of communication and/or transportation.

Restraining Orders and Injunctions

---

The Domestic Violence Department Team helps those affected by domestic; repeat, sexual, dating and stalking violence obtain injunctions for protection. Injunctions are commonly referred to as "restraining orders." Any victim of abuse has the right to file an injunction against their alleged abuser. An Injunction for Protection is a Court Order, often referred to as a restraining order, which places restrictions on an individual who has allegedly committed acts or made threats of violence against another individual. A restraining order may include requirements that restrain the Respondent from further acts of violence; order the Respondent to leave a shared dwelling; prevent the Respondent from coming to your home, school, or place of employment; and/or award temporary custody of minor child(ren).

INSTRUCTIONS — When filing a complaint, bring the following with you:

• Driver license or identification which includes your picture and signature.
• Specific dates of abuse or threats of abuse.
• Specific locations where abuse or threats occurred.

You should also be able to provide:

• Name of respondent (alleged abuser).
• Physical description of respondent, including height, weight, scars, date of birth, etc.
• Current residence address of respondent, including telephone number.
• Respondent's employer and employer's address and phone number, if possible.
• Respondent's vehicle information including make, model, color, year, and tag number.

If a Restraining Order (Injunction) is granted, there will be a hearing in 15 days or fewer.

Types of Injunctions, and the law that governs:

---

Request a Hope Card

---

Effective October 1, 2024, pursuant to Florida Statute 741.311, a new initiative is available to enhance safety and provide peace of mind for those who have secured final injunctions for protection against various forms of violence and abuse. A petitioner may now request the Clerk's Office to issue a Hope Card after the court issues a final judgement of injunction for protection under the following Florida Statutes:

• F.S. 741.30 - Domestic Violence
• F.S. 784.046 - Repeat Violence, Sexual Violence, Dating Violence
• F.S. 784.0485 - Stalking
• F.S. 825.1035 - Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation of Elderly Persons and Disabled Adults

Having a Hope Card offers several significant benefits:

• Immediate Verification: The card acts as an official, easily recognizable proof of a valid protective order. It simplifies the process for law enforcement and other authorities to verify the existence and details of the injunction, ensuring quicker responses and enhanced protection.
• Enhanced Safety: With a Hope Card in hand, individuals can confidently demonstrate their protected status during encounters with law enforcement or other entities, minimizing the risk of confusion or miscommunication.
• Accessible Support: The card serves as a constant reminder of the legal protections in place and provides direct access to support resources and information tailored to help individuals navigate their safety plan.

How do I Request a Hope Card?

If you have a final injunction for protection, the process of obtaining a Hope Card is straightforward and free of charge.

• Simply refer to the order of protection issued by the 17th Judicial Circuit Court, when completing the Hope Card Request Form.
• Submit the completed Hope Card Request Form to the Clerk's office for processing, to the division the protective order was issued.
• Upon receipt, the Clerk's Office will produce the requestor, within three (3) business days, a wallet-size Hope Card that will serve as a crucial tool that presents important information about final injunctions for protection.
• Hope Cards are valid for two years after the issuance date of a final order or the expiration date of the injunction, whichever comes first.

Hope Card Request Form

Victim Parking

---

Central Courthouse Parking

Free parking is provided for victims attending injunction court hearings as well as filing injunction petitions. The Domestic Violence Unit will validate your parking ticket.

The victims must park in the jury parking garage located east of the Courthouse at 540 SE 3rd Avenue, obtain a parking ticket and bring it with you. Upon completion of your filing, we will stamp your parking ticket. The victim must take the stamped ticket to the first floor of the East Garage to receive validation.

Directions To Parking Garage at 540 SE 3rd Avenue

Forms and Self Help

The Clerk’s Office is unable to provide legal advice or assistance. As a pro-se litigant, or self-represented party, it is helpful to educate yourself on the court rules, proper legal filings, and service requirements.

Below you will find helpful information and forms to assist you. For further assistance relating to legal resources and forms, please visit the Self Help Equal Access Center - Law Library. Law Librarians are available to assist you in locating legal resources and forms.

Frequently Asked Questions

---