What Florida Residents Must Know About Domestic Violence No Contact Orders

Florida takes allegations of domestic violence very seriously. As a result, those who make these allegations have the ability to seek a court order to keep the alleged abuser from making any contact. This no contact order, also known as an injunction or restraining order, restricts the accused from contacting the alleged victim. It is a legal directive issued by a court that prohibits the accused from engaging in any form of communication with the alleged victim. This includes direct communication like phone calls, text messages, emails, and in-person interactions as well as indirect communication like messages through social media, third parties, or any other means.

Those who are the subject of a no contact order in Florida are wise to learn how to protect their rights to help mitigate the risk of a negative impact on their future.

Duration and types of no contact orders

In Florida, no contact orders can vary in duration and type:

• Temporary orders: These are often issued pre-trial or post-arrest and remain in effect until the court decides otherwise.
• Permanent orders: If convicted of an alleged crime, the court may issue a permanent injunction, extending the no contact order indefinitely.

It is important to understand the timeline and conditions of these orders to better ensure compliance and to develop the proper legal response.

Legal consequences of violating a no contact order

Although the order itself is a civil matter, a violation can result in criminal charges as well as additional repercussions. It is imperative to follow the terms of the order to reduce the risk of additional legal issues.

Possible exceptions and legal strategies

While no contact orders are stringent, the court may grant exceptions, such as contact for child visitation and communication through attorneys. These exceptions are not automatic and generally require court approval. Defendants should never attempt contact without explicit permission from the court. A defense attorney can help with modifications or reinstatement of contact under specific conditions.