Tampa Restraining Order Lawyer

Experienced Restraining Order Defense in Florida

A restraining order, also known as a protective order, is a legal order issued by a court of law that forbids the subject of the order from contacting the person who requested it. “Contact” includes speaking to the person, being within a set proximity of them, or calling, emailing, or writing to them. Restraining orders are often issued in cases of domestic violence.  

Once a restraining order has been filed, the subject must cease all forms of contact. If the person does not stop, they can be charged with violating a restraining order, which is a separate crime under Florida law. If a person is charged with violating a restraining order, they may have to spend time in jail or pay significant fines. Additionally, the order may be extended to prohibit any additional contact in the future. 

If you are currently facing domestic violence charges or have a restraining order against you, reach out to The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk to discuss your legal rights and options with a knowledgeable restraining order attorney in Tampa. 

Call (813) 321-7323 or contact us online today for a complimentary consultation.

About Orders of Protection in Florida

A judge may issue a restraining order following an accusation of domestic violence, stalking, or harassment. This accusation must have reasonable grounds; usually, the court has to believe the victim's well-being or life may be in danger. The point of a restraining order is to keep the alleged victim safe while criminal proceedings are underway.

Per Florida Statutes §741.30, any person who has been victimized by domestic violence or believes they are in danger of being injured has legal grounds to seek an injunction for protection through the court. This applies to those who have technically left the household to escape violence.

If a protective order is granted, the following may occur (depending on the nature of the petition):

• Defendant restrained from committing domestic violence
• Petitioner granted exclusive rights to the dwelling
• Parenting plan goes into effect, including time-sharing
• Defendant may have limited visitation
• Placement of a temporary plan for child support
• Defendant participates in batterers' intervention program

In some cases, should the court determine that there is an immediate need, the judge may grant a "temporary injunction ex parte," without entering into the process of a full hearing. This can significantly and immediately impact your life. For this reason, if you have had a restraining order taken out against you, do not hesitate to involve an experienced lawyer. You have the right to tell your side of the story.

How a Tampa Restraining Order Defense Attorney Can Help

A Florida restraining order prohibits the accused from being within a certain distance of the victim and from contacting them via any type of message, phone, email, mail, direct contact, or third-party contact. Even if the victim initiates contact, it will be considered a restraining order violation. If there is a restraining order against you and the person contacts you, immediately cut off contact and get in touch with your criminal defense attorney.

As your legal counsel, Attorney Jeff Paulk can: 

• Advise you of your rights and legal options 
• Work to limit the negative impacts of a restraining order
• Gather evidence supporting your side of the story
• Represent you at hearings related to your case
• Challenge the allegations against you 
• Help you fight to avoid conviction 

If someone has taken out a restraining order against you or accused you of violating an order of protection, your situation is serious. Reach out to The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk right away to learn how we can help.

Contact Our Firm for Trusted Restraining Order Defense

If a restraining order has been issued against you, you need a qualified Tampa restraining order lawyer. The restraining order may be keeping you from going home and interacting with your family. It might be affecting your work life and personal relationships. Violating an order of protection could land you in jail or with thousands of dollars in fines. It's time to protect your future by involving The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk.

Call us now at (813) 321-7323 to learn how we can protect you.