Injunctions & Domestic Violence
Ten things people get wrong about Florida restraining orders — answered plainly, so you know what an injunction really does before you’re standing in front of a judge.
What a restraining order actually means
Domestic-violence injunctions are one of the most misunderstood corners of family law. Below are the real answers — the kind of “here’s what this actually means” clarity that helps you act instead of panic. This is educational, not legal advice; if you’re in immediate danger, call 911.
Straight answers
Is an injunction criminal or civil?
An injunction is a civil order — but violating one can trigger criminal charges. Two different tracks that connect at the violation.
Who is barred from contact — both people?
Only the respondent is barred from contact, not the petitioner. The petitioner isn’t violating anything by reaching out, though it can complicate the case.
Can an injunction be vacated later?
Yes. Injunctions can be modified or vacated by the court — they’re not necessarily permanent.
Does the accuser “drop” it like a criminal charge?
No. A civil injunction isn’t a criminal charge the state prosecutes; the process and the standards are different.
Will an injunction show up on a background check?
It can. Because it’s a court record, an injunction can surface in background checks even though it’s civil.
Can I get an injunction and a divorce at the same time?
Yes — they’re separate cases and often run in parallel. We handle both.
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Domestic Violence in Family Court — on video
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