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Around the world, at least one in every three women has been beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused during her lifetime.
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What is it like to live at Hubbard House?
Hubbard House provides safety and support to survivors of domestic violence and their families...
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Legal Options
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Your Right for Protection
You've been battered or threatened with abuse. What can you do? First, call the police. Under Florida law, the police can arrest a person with probable cause that an act of domestic violence has been committed. And because domestic violence is an act against the state, it's up to the state to press charges. This makes it easier for you to move forward legally because the state makes the decision to prosecute based on the evidence, not your abuser's apologies, promises, or threats. Second, if necessary, get medical attention.
Restraining Orders/Injunctions for Protection
You can also protect yourself from future violent acts by obtaining a restraining order, also known as an injunction for protection. If the judge grants your request, the abuser may be restricted from:
- Committing any act of violence against you, your children, or others living with you.
- Living in your home.
- Contacting you or visiting your home, workplace, or other specified place.
- Taking your children. You can ask for temporary custody of the children you and the abuser have together.
- Refusing to go to counseling. You can include a request for referral to the Batterers’ Intervention Program or mandatory counseling in your injunction.
An injunction for protection can be granted even if you have never called the police or pressed charges against your abuser. You only have to prove that you have reason to fear your partner and that fear is based on some serious threat or past violence. Keep your injunction with you at all times! If your abuser violates the injunction, he/she can be arrested. Additionally, this is an especially dangerous time because you have taken an action that lessons the abuser’s sense of control. In addition to assisting you with obtaining an injunction for protection, Hubbard House court advocates can help you develop a safety plan for you and your children.
For more information about the injunction for protection process or to speak with a Hubbard House court advocate, please call 904-630-7514.