Domestic Violence Overview
Experienced and Compassionate Support Throughout Your Divorce Journey in Jacksonville
What Forms Can Domestic Violence Take?
Domestic violence takes many forms, including:
- Assault or battery
- Child abuse
- Sexual assault or battery
- Emotional abuse
- Physical abuse
- Stalking
- Kidnapping
What Is Considered Stalking?
Domestic violence is never acceptable, and everyone deserves to feel safe in their relationships. If you are in immediate danger, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at www.thehotline.org for confidential, 24/7 support by phone or chat. Your safety will always be our top priority.
Unfortunately, domestic violence often escalates during family law matters such as divorce or child custody disputes. One particularly intimidating form is stalking, which occurs when someone intentionally and repeatedly follows, harasses, or cyberstalks another person, leaving the victim in constant fear. Florida law further defines harassment as behavior that causes significant emotional distress and serves no legitimate purpose.
Cyberstalking is a growing concern and involves using electronic communication to harass, threaten, or intimidate someone. It can also include attempts to access another person’s online accounts without permission. If you are experiencing stalking, harassment, or cyberstalking, you have the right to petition for a domestic violence injunction, commonly known as a restraining order. Our attorneys are here to guide you through this process with the compassion and care you deserve.
Protection Orders With Children
One of the most devastating situations is when children are subjected to abuse or exposed to domestic violence. In these cases, a child protection order may be necessary. Similar to an injunction or restraining order, a child protection order safeguards children from harm by an abusive parent or even a sibling. These orders can also outline important details, including visitation restrictions and rules about contact with the children.
If your partner or ex-spouse violates a court order, it’s critical to call the police right away to report the violation and seek immediate protection.
Our attorneys understand the sensitivity of these cases and are committed to standing by your side every step of the way—during the process and long after your divorce is finalized. With our experience, resources, and compassion, we will provide the strong legal support you and your family deserve.
Injunction – Requesting/Defending
Filing for an injunction, also known as a restraining order, is an important step in seeking protection from domestic violence. The process begins when you file a petition with the clerk of the circuit court. This can be done in the county where you currently live (even if you’ve only lived there for one day), the county where your partner or ex-spouse resides, or the county where the abuse occurred.
Once filed, a judge will review your petition and may issue a temporary injunction that typically lasts up to 15 days. To secure a long-term injunction, you will be required to attend a court hearing where both sides can present their case.
At Florida Women’s Law Group, we understand the urgency and sensitivity of these situations. Whether you are seeking protection or defending against an injunction, our experienced domestic violence lawyers in Jacksonville are here to guide you through the process and fight for your rights.
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