If a relationship makes you feel afraid, anxious, or constantly on edge, you do not have to wait for things to get worse.
Florida law allows you to seek protection before serious harm occurs.
At Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti, we have spent over 40 years protecting Florida families. One of the most misunderstood areas of family law is the dating violence injunction — a powerful legal tool designed to stop escalation before someone gets seriously hurt.
Many people believe protective orders apply only to married couples or to people who live together. That is not true.
Florida law specifically protects individuals in romantic relationships — even if you never lived together, shared finances, or were engaged.
What Is a “Dating Relationship” Under Florida Law?
Not every date qualifies.
To seek a dating violence injunction in Florida, there must have been:
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A continuing romantic or intimate relationship
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Interaction over time (not a single meeting)
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Affection or expectation of affection
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A relationship within the past six months
A former boyfriend, girlfriend, or romantic partner typically qualifies.
A coworker you had lunch with once usually does not.
Courts in South Florida look at the nature of the relationship, not whether you lived together.
What Counts as Dating Violence?
Dating violence is broader than many people realize.
It is not limited to visible injuries.
Under Florida law, it includes:
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Hitting, pushing, grabbing, or restraining
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Sexual assault
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Threats of violence
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Stalking or repeated unwanted contact
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Harassing texts, calls, or social media messages
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Showing up at your home, work, or school after being told to stop
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False imprisonment or kidnapping
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Any criminal act causing physical injury
You do not need to suffer serious injury before asking for protection.
Judges regularly issue temporary injunctions when there is credible evidence of escalating behavior.
You Do Not Have to Wait for the “Next Incident”
The court does not require proof of hospitalization or severe physical harm.
The legal standard is whether there is a reasonable belief that violence is likely to happen again.
If a judge believes escalation is possible, a temporary dating violence injunction may be granted the same day you file.
Prevention — not punishment — is the goal.
What Is a Dating Violence Injunction?
A dating violence injunction (sometimes referred to as a restraining order for dating violence) is a court order that can require the other person to:
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Stay away from you
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Stop all contact (calls, texts, social media, third parties)
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Stay away from your home, workplace, or school
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Surrender firearms
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Commit no further acts of violence
Violation of an injunction can result in immediate arrest.
In Broward and Miami-Dade Counties, petitions are typically reviewed within 24 hours.
A temporary injunction may be issued without the other party present, followed by a full evidentiary hearing within approximately two weeks.
How to File a Petition for Injunction for Protection Against Dating Violence
You may file in the county where:
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You live
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The other person lives
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The violence occurred
There is no filing fee.
Many South Florida courthouses have domestic violence intake offices, and some allow online filing.
Your petition must describe specific incidents and explain why you fear future violence. The more detail provided — including dates, threats, and prior behavior — the stronger the case.
What Evidence Helps?
Judges look for patterns, not isolated arguments.
Helpful evidence may include:
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Text messages and screenshots
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Social media posts
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Voicemails
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Witness testimony
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Police reports
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Photos
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Evidence of repeated unwanted contact
Even behavior that seems “just obsessive” or “overly jealous” can become legally significant if it shows escalation.
Why Many People Wait Too Long
We frequently hear:
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“They didn’t really hurt me.”
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“It was emotional, not physical.”
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“I don’t want to ruin their life.”
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“It will calm down.”
Unfortunately, many serious cases begin with warning signs that were minimized.
Florida’s injunction laws are designed to intervene early — before irreversible harm occurs.
When You Should Speak with a Family Law Attorney Immediately
You should seek legal advice promptly if:
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Contact continues after you clearly told them to stop
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They monitor your social media or track your movements
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They threaten you or themselves
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They appear unexpectedly at your home or workplace
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Arguments are escalating
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You feel afraid — even if you cannot fully explain why
Fear matters. Courts take it seriously.
Our attorneys have represented both individuals seeking protection and those responding to injunctions. We understand how judges in South Florida evaluate these cases and what evidence carries weight in court.
Early legal action often prevents long-term harm.
FAQ: Dating Violence Injunctions in Florida
How long does a dating violence injunction last?
A judge may issue it for a specific period of time or indefinitely, depending on the circumstances.
Is there a filing fee?
No. There is no cost to file a petition for protection against dating violence.
Do I need a police report?
No. While helpful, it is not required.
How quickly can I get protection?
Temporary protection is often granted within 24 hours if immediate danger is shown.
Protecting Your Safety and Your Future
Dating violence rarely begins with a single dramatic incident. It often develops gradually through control, intimidation, threats, and escalating behavior.
You do not have to wait for a serious injury before taking action.
If you feel unsafe in a dating relationship, speak with an experienced South Florida family law attorney who understands how to move quickly and protect you.
Contact Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti today at 305-653-5555, text us at 305-653-1515, or email [email protected] to schedule a confidential consultation.
We serve clients throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and the Florida Keys.
Over 40 Years Fighting for Florida Families.
