In Florida, protective orders are typically issued in criminal cases involving domestic violence, assault, battery, and other violent crimes where the courts are concerned for the safety of the victim. These court orders, commonly referred to as “restraining orders,” “injunctions,” or “no contact orders,” may require the respondent to attend a hearing.
If you or someone you care about is scheduled to attend a Florida protective order hearing, now is the time to seek legal counsel from a skilled criminal defense lawyer. Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel has dedicated his over 30-year career to defending people accused of various types of crimes in South Florida. Mr. Gabriel will handle your case using all the knowledge and skill developed over the span of his lengthy career.
What You Should Know About Protective Order Hearings in Florida
Respondents of temporary and permanent injunctions often feel like they are accused of committing a crime. However, in Florida, the person who filed the injunction, also known as the “petitioner,” can be granted a temporary injunction without having to provide any evidence (other than their word) that a crime was committed.
Unfortunately, respondents cannot fight these court orders until their protective order hearing, which usually does not occur until after the temporary injunction has already been entered. During this hearing, both the petitioner and respondents can provide their side of the story to the judge, and the judge will determine whether to deny the injunction or grant it.
To provide yourself with the best opportunity of fighting a protective order in Florida, secure legal representation prior to the hearing so your lawyer can begin building your case beforehand.
Why Protective Order Hearings in Florida Should Be Taken Seriously
Even though the underlying reasonings for injunctions are criminal, injunctions are actually civil matters. While some criminal charges are eligible for expungement after a certain amount of time has passed, civil orders are not only ineligible for expungement but are also visible to the public. Therefore, even if the petitioner’s allegations were false and the injunction did not result in criminal charges, the protective order will still be available for anyone to view.
Having a public civil order against you, such as a restraining order, could lead to a host of challenges, such as:
- Losing employment
- Struggling to secure a new job
- Custody disputes
- Damaged reputation
Injunctions can flip your life upside down. The ramifications of an injunction can be unsettling and disruptive. Do not put yourself at risk of losing your job or the custody of your children without seeking the help of a criminal defense attorney.
Secure Qualified Legal Representation for a Protective Order Hearing in Florida
If you have been served a protective order in Florida, your life could be affected significantly. Give yourself the highest chance of fighting an injunction by seeking legal counsel from a qualified attorney. Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel has represented numerous Floridians during protective order hearings over his 30-year career.
Start with a free consultation today by calling Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel of The Law Office of Gabriel & Gabriel at (561) 622-5575. You can also complete an online contact form to learn more.