‘Hope Cards’ Could Help Better Protect Victims Of Domestic Violence In Fort Lauderdale

Domestic violence in Fort Lauderdale may consist of pushing, hitting, punching, making threats, verbal putdowns, stalking and harassment, or preventing the victim from leaving their home. Putting an end to an abusive relationship takes courage. Fortunately, there are legal options that can help in this situation. Our Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer explains the benefits of obtaining a restraining order and how new ‘Hope cards’ may allow victims to more easily get the legal protection they need.

How Restraining Orders Help Victims Of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is listed as a criminal offense under the Florida Statutes and carries severe penalties. In addition to stopping abusers, state legislators are also concerned with ways to help potential victims.

Filing a petition to obtain an Injunction for Protection, otherwise known as a restraining order, can help protect the safety of people facing this type of situation. This is usually granted as an emergency temporary order, which provides immediate help. You may be entitled to obtain a restraining order if your spouse or partner has physically or sexually abused you or made documented threats.

A restraining order in Fort Lauderdale prohibits your abuser from being at your home or attempting to contact you in any way. Other protections it provides include:

• Grants you temporary ownership of items such as homes, cars, and household belongings;
• Grants you temporary custody of any children from the relationship;
• Requires the abuser to seek counseling, surrender all weapons, and check in with the court regularly;
• May require them to pay alimony and child support.

Hope Cards Provides Proof A Restraining Order Is In Place

A restraining order provides important protection for victims of domestic violence in Fort Lauderdale. Obtaining one is often the first step toward safety and freedom from the terror of abuse. However, in order to enforce a restraining order, such as if your spouse or partner appears at your home or place of work, you must keep the court order with you at all times.

This simply is not practical and can prevent domestic violence victims in Fort Lauderdale from getting the services they need. Fortunately, the Florida Senate recently passed legislation that would make this situation a little easier.

State legislators approved Senate Bill 86 in February 2024. The bill requires the state to issue Hope Cards to people with restraining orders. This is a wallet-sized laminated card that can be discreetly carried with you. Modeled after programs that have been successful in other states, it reduces confusion and potential delays in seeking protection, helping to keep cosmetic violence victims safe.

Discuss Your Options With Our Fort Lauderdale Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic violence is a common problem that can put your health and safety at risk. At the law office of Vanessa L. Prieto, we take the legal actions needed to ensure you are protected. To discuss your options, contact our Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer and request a confidential consultation today.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0741/Sections/0741.28.html

flcourts.gov/Resources-Services/Office-of-Family-Courts/Family-Court-in-Florida/Domestic-Violence/Overview-Respondents

flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2024/86