Dating Violence Injunctions and Restraining Orders

You deserve to live free of fear!

Pursuant to Florida Statute 784.046(2)(b), any person who is the victim of dating violence, or the parent or legal guardian of a minor child who is the victim of dating violence, may petition for an Injunction for Protection Against Dating Violence.

Dating violence is violence between individuals who have, or have had, a continuing and significant relationship of a romantic or intimate nature. To obtain an Injunction against Dating Violence, the petitioner must prove they:

  1. Were a victim of dating violence AND have reasonable cause to believe they are in imminent danger of another act of dating violence being committed against them; or
  2. Have reasonable cause to believe they are in imminent danger of becoming the victim of a future act of dating violence.

There are three factors the court considers in determining whether a “dating relationship” exists:

  1. That a relationship existed within the past six months;
  2. That the relationship was characterized by the expectation of affection or sexual involvement between the parties; and
  3. That the persons were involved over a continuous basis during the course of the relationship.

Importantly, a dating relationship does not exist in circumstances where contact between the parties has been that of a casual acquaintance or ordinary fraternization in a business or social context.

While the standard for issuance of a Dating Violence Injunction is the same as the domestic violence injunction, the available injunctive relief mirrors that in repeat violence cases. Specifically, the court may award injunctions against acts of violence, referrals to appropriate counseling, and enter other orders necessary to protect the petitioner.

Contact Orlando Injunction Attorney

Contact Orlando Injunction and Restraining Order Attorney Richard Hornsby if you are in fear of someone you have dated and you want to obtain immediate protection.

The initial consultation is free and I will respond promptly to assist you because you deserve to live free of fear!