Frequently Asked Questions
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, you may have questions about what it is, how to get help, and what resources are available. This section answers some of the most common questions and provides guidance on where to turn for support.
What is Domestic Violence?
Florida legally defines “domestic violence” as any assault, aggravated assault, battery, aggravated battery, sexual assault, sexual battery, stalking, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal offense resulting in physical injury or death of one family or household member by another family or household member.
What should I do if I suspect someone is in an abusive relationship?
Being a trusted and supportive ally to individuals experiencing abuse can provide peace and comfort to survivors of domestic violence. Identifying methods to support these survivors is important in forging a path toward healing and hope. Educating ourselves and others on recognizing harmful relationship tactics and offering support is essential. Below are some useful tips to consider if you think someone is experiencing abuse:
- -Stay in contact and make plans to spend time with them
- -Have supportive conversations and ask what they need
- -Believe them and validate their feelings
- -Offer resources
- -Encourage, listen, and let them know they aren’t alone
- -Help create a safety plan
- -Educate yourself about domestic violence and learn the red flags
- -Keep ownership of violence with the person choosing violence
- -Be there for them
How would I report abuse?
When you report abuse —whether it’s your own experience or someone you know— you can call the 24-hour hotline at 1‑800‑500‑1119 to be connected with an advocate. Advocates can provide support, help with safety planning, share information, and connect you with a certified local domestic violence center for immediate services.
How do I find a Domestic Violence center closest to me?
Florida has 41 certified domestic violence centers serving all 67 counties in the state. Some programs serve more than one county. Every program offers emergency housing, crisis counseling and safety planning. Use our Find Help tool to locate the program closest to you.
Is help available in another language?
Yes. Interpreters are available for non‑English speaking callers for all hotlines.
How do I get free legal advice?
Victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual violence, or stalking can call the Domestic Violence Legal Hotline at 1‑850‑385‑0611 for free legal advice and referrals. TTY Access to the legal hotline can be reached at 1-800-955-8771. The hotline can assist with issues like injunctions for protection, family law, housing, immigration, and other civil legal matters. Interpreters are available for callers who do not speak English. This service is operated through a partnership between the Florida Department of Children and Families Domestic Violence Program and Florida Legal Services, Inc.
How would I go about obtaining a restraining order?
⚠️ Important Note: This is not legal advice. For legal advice, contact Florida Legal Services’ Domestic Violence Legal Hotline at 1‑850‑385‑0611.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, another form of violence, or believe you are in immediate danger of becoming a victim, you have the right to request legal protection from the court. This protection is called an “injunction.”
There is no cost to file a request for an injunction. If you need help filing an injunction, or need an attorney to represent you, please call Florida Legal Services at 850-385-0611. Florida has FREE Injunction for Protection Attorneys who represent survivors in injunction hearings at no cost to the survivor, regardless of income.
An injunction against domestic violence may include court orders that:
-Require the abuser to stay away from you and have no contact with you
-Grant you temporary exclusive use of the home you share
-Prohibit the abuser from entering your home, school, or workplace
-Award you temporary custody of your minor children
-Require the abuser to pay temporary child support for you and your children (if the abuser is their parent)
-Order the abuser to attend a Batterer’s Intervention Program
How to Get an Injunction in Florida:
The best option is to call Florida Legal Services for help. They can guide you through the process and provide support every step of the way.
If you choose to file on your own, here are the basic steps:
- 1. Filing the Petition
-Go to your local courthouse and ask the clerk for the forms to file a petition for an injunction (restraining order).
-Write down what happened — include dates, places, and details of threats, violence, or stalking. Be truthful and specific.
2. What to Include
-Any evidence (texts, photos, police reports, messages).
-Information about other court cases involving the same person.
-Where the person can be located to be served with papers.
3. What Happens After You File
-Temporary Injunction: The judge may grant a short‑term order until your hearing (within 15 days).
-Hearing Only: No temporary order, but a hearing date is set.
-Denied: The petition is denied. You can add more details and refile.
4. The Court Hearing
-Attend the hearing — the judge will review evidence, listen to both sides, and hear from witnesses.
-If granted, a Final Injunction will be issued. Keep a copy with you.
5. If the Order is Violated
-Report it to law enforcement right away.
-Only the court can change or dismiss the order.
6. Support Services
-Victim advocates can help with paperwork and safety planning.
-Free language interpreters are available at court.
Source: www.flcourts.gov
I am interested in becoming an ally of domestic violence survivors. What can I do to help?
One of the most impactful ways you can help is by joining FPEDV as a member. Your membership not only shows your commitment to standing with survivors, but also strengthens our collective voice to improve resources, shape policy, and build safer communities across Florida. Together, we can ensure survivors are heard, supported, and empowered. If you believe in the mission and vision of FPEDV, you can apply to become a member by clicking here.
Help is Nearby.
Get in Touch
- (448) 666-1987
- Office Hours - Mon-Friday 8:30-4:30
- Mailing Address- PO Box 3927 Tallahassee, FL 32315
