St. Petersburg Domestic Violence Injunctions Attorney
A domestic violence injunction, commonly referred to as a restraining order, is a legal order issued by the court to protect individuals from abuse, threats, or harassment by a family or household member. These injunctions serve as a crucial legal tool for victims of domestic violence, helping to prevent further harm by legally restricting the abuser’s actions. At the Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman, we help clients in St. Petersburg seek, defend against, and enforce domestic violence injunctions. Contact our experienced St. Petersburg domestic violence injunctions attorney for immediate assistance.
Types of Injunctions for Protection
Florida law provides several types of injunctions based on the nature of the threat or abuse. The primary types of injunctions include:
- Domestic Violence Injunctions – Available for individuals who have been physically abused, threatened, or harassed by a spouse, former spouse, co-parent, or other household member.
- Repeat Violence Injunctions – Designed for cases where there have been at least two incidents of violence or stalking by someone who is not a family or household member.
- Dating Violence Injunctions – For individuals who have experienced violence from someone with whom they had a romantic or intimate relationship within the past six months.
- Sexual Violence Injunctions – Available for victims of sexual assault, lewd acts, or other forms of sexual violence, regardless of whether criminal charges have been filed.
- Stalking Injunctions – Designed to protect individuals from stalking or cyberstalking behavior.
Filing for a Domestic Violence Injunction in St. Petersburg
If you are a victim of domestic violence or have reason to believe you are in imminent danger, you can petition the court for an injunction. The process begins by filing a petition in the circuit court, detailing the abuse or threats you have experienced. A judge may issue a temporary injunction immediately if there is an urgent need for protection. A full hearing is typically scheduled within 15 days, during which both parties have an opportunity to present evidence and testimony.
What a Domestic Violence Injunction Can Do
A domestic violence injunction can provide several legal protections, including:
- Ordering the abuser to have no contact with the victim, including staying away from their home, workplace, or school.
- Granting temporary custody of children and establishing timesharing restrictions to ensure their safety.
- Requiring the abuser to surrender firearms and other weapons.
- Mandating participation in intervention programs, such as anger management or domestic violence counseling.
- Establishing financial support obligations if necessary.
Defending Against a Domestic Violence Injunction
In some cases, individuals may be wrongfully accused of domestic violence and served with an injunction. A domestic violence injunction can have significant consequences, including restrictions on child custody, employment difficulties, and loss of firearm rights. If you have been served with an injunction, it is essential to seek legal representation immediately. Attorney Kevin F. Coleman provides skilled defense for individuals facing injunctions, helping to present evidence, challenge false allegations, and advocate for their legal rights in court.
Modifying or Terminating an Injunction
Injunctions can be modified or lifted if circumstances change. If the protected party no longer believes an injunction is necessary, or if the respondent seeks to challenge its terms, a motion can be filed with the court requesting a modification or termination. The court will review the request and hold a hearing to determine if the injunction should remain in place, be altered, or be dismissed.
Enforcement of Domestic Violence Injunctions
Violating a domestic violence injunction is a serious offense and can lead to criminal charges, including jail time. If an injunction is violated, the protected party should report the violation to law enforcement immediately. Attorney Kevin F. Coleman assists clients in enforcing injunctions by taking legal action against violators and ensuring the protections granted by the court are upheld.
Legal Guidance for Domestic Violence Injunctions in St. Petersburg
Whether you need to file for an injunction, defend against one, or modify an existing order, having an experienced attorney on your side is critical. Kevin F. Coleman provides compassionate and knowledgeable legal representation for clients dealing with domestic violence injunctions in St. Petersburg.
If you need legal assistance with a domestic violence injunction, contact the Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman today to schedule a consultation.