Tampa Restraining Order Lawyers

Experienced Restraining Order Defense in Florida

A restraining order is a legal order issued by a court of law that forbids the subject of the order from making contact with the person who filed for the order. Contact includes speaking with the person, being within set proximity, calling, emailing, or even writing to them. These are often issued in cases of domestic violence.  Once a restraining order has been filed, the subject must cease all forms of contact. If the person does not stop, they can be charged with a violation of a restraining order. 

If you are currently facing a restraining order, talk to an attorney at our Tampa law office about your legal rights and options. Call (813) 321-7323 today!

Accused of Violating a Restraining Order?

Once a person is charged with violating a restraining order, they may have to spend time in jail or pay significant fines. Additionally, the order may be extended to prohibit any additional contact in the future. By violating restraining orders, people place themselves in an uncertain predicament, resulting in harsh legal consequences. By consulting an attorney immediately upon an accusation involving a restraining order violation, a person can avoid the harsh penalties associated with this offense.

About Orders of Protection in Florida

A judge may put a restraining order into place following an accusation of domestic violence, stalking, or harassment. This accusation must have reasonable grounds; usually, the court has to believe the victim's well-being or life may be in danger. The point of a restraining order is to keep the alleged victim safe while criminal proceedings are underway. Per Florida Statutes §741.30, any person who has been victimized by domestic violence or believes they are in danger of being injured has legal grounds to seek an injunction for protection through the court. This applies to those who have technically left the household to escape violence.

If granted, the following may occur (depending on the nature of the petition):

• Defendant restrained from committing domestic violence
• Petitioner granted exclusive rights to the dwelling
• Parenting plan goes into effect, including time-sharing
• Defendant may have limited visitation
• Placement of a temporary plan for child support
• Defendant participates in batterers' intervention program

In some cases, should the court determine that there is an immediate need, they may grant a "temporary injunction ex parte," without entering into the process of a full hearing. This can limit your life and cause significant grief. For this reason, if you have had a restraining order taken out against you, do not hesitate to involve an experienced lawyer. You have the right to tell your side of the story.

Tampa Restraining Order Defense Attorneys

A Florida restraining order prohibits the accused from being within a certain distance of the victim, from contacting via message, phone, email, mail, direct contact, or third-party contact. Even if the victim initiates contact, it will be considered a restraining order violation. If there is a restraining order against you and the person contacts you, immediately cut off contact and get in touch with your Tampa criminal defense attorney.

For experienced counsel, contact our Tampa restraining order defense lawyers at (813) 321-7323. Your initial consultation is free and private.