Going Through A Separation? When To Get A Protective Order In Fort Lauderdale

Going through a separation from your partner or spouse may be necessary and potentially productive, providing the time and space you need to gain perspective on your relationship. However, when it happens due to deteriorating conditions at home or if the other party becomes threatening or hostile, it is important to take steps to protect yourself. Find out how to get a protective order in Fort Lauderdale and when this is likely to be in your best interests.

Getting A Restraining Order During A Separation

Problems in your relationship can take a turn for the worse, deteriorating into potentially dangerous conditions that put your safety at risk. If your spouse is guilty of domestic violence, which includes physical acts such as hitting or pushing, as well as intimidation, sexual abuse, stalking, harassment, or other threats.

In this situation, you may be entitled to an Injunction for Protection Against Domestic Violence, otherwise known as a restraining order. This can prevent your partner from appearing at your residence, calling, texting, or sending emails, or engaging in other forms of communication.

If you are separated from the other party for other reasons, a restraining order may still be the best way to ensure your safety. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for an ex to become hostile, harassing, and make threats throughout this period. In order to obtain an Injunction for Protection, you will need to take the following actions:

• File a police report, documenting the behavior;
• Take photos of your injuries and gather other evidence;
• File a Petition for an Injunction through the Broward County Court;
• Have it served on the other party.

Parenting Plan Modifications May Be The Best Way To Protect Yourself And Your Child

Under the Florida Statutes, an injunction for protection is available and can be filed against a domestic partner, regardless of whether you currently reside with them. Situations in which this may be the best option to protect yourself and your rights include:

• Your partner has previously behaved in an aggressive manner, with incidents of domestic violence in the past;
• They are contacting you at work or school or otherwise stalking you and engaging in harassment;
• They are harassing your friends and family and threatening to harm pets or destroy your property;
• They are threatening you to get back together or otherwise trying to coerce you into different behaviors.

 To Protect Yourself, Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Domestic Violence Lawyer Today 

Domestic violence is a serious problem in Fort Lauderdale and can escalate as a result of a separation. Even if there is no prior history of aggressive or threatening behavior, abusive behavior, stalking, and harassment could quickly become an issue during your time apart. At the law office of Vanessa L. Prieto, our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer can advise you on your options in putting a restraining order in place. To protect yourself, call or contact us online and request a confidential consultation today.

Sources:

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

browardclerk.org/

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0741/Sections/0741.30.html