Overview

A minor in Florida can be protected under a Repeat Violence Injunction when they have suffered two or more separate incidents of violence or stalking, with at least one occurring within the previous six months. Under Florida Statute §784.046, minors do not file on their own; their parent or legal guardian petitions on their behalf using Form 12.980(f) — the official “Petition for Injunction for Protection Against Repeat Violence.” This statute ensures that a child receives the same protection as an adult victim, while an adult takes on legal responsibility for the filing, testimony, and compliance steps.

Violence in this context includes assault, battery, sexual battery, stalking, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal act resulting in physical injury or death. The law applies broadly, meaning the aggressor could be another student, neighbor, coach, or even a family member. If the aggressor is a parent, stepparent, or guardian, the court requires a higher standard of proof — the filing adult must have direct evidence, be an eyewitness, or possess sworn statements from witnesses. This rule guards against misuse of injunctions in custody or family disputes.

The process is designed to be rapid and free of cost. Clerks of court must accept and assist with petitions at no charge, and sheriffs must personally serve respondents without collecting service fees. Hearings are scheduled quickly—usually within 15 days of filing—and temporary (ex parte) orders can issue the same day to provide immediate safety for the child. The system prioritizes fast, barrier-free access to protection, recognizing that children are especially vulnerable to repeated harassment or physical violence.

In practical terms, the adult petitioner files the form, attaches exhibits (texts, photos, witness letters), and swears to its truth under penalty of perjury. The child may attend the hearing if the judge requests their presence, but minors are rarely required to testify directly unless their words are essential. The injunction may order the respondent to stay away from the child’s home, school, bus stop, after-school programs, and places of worship. Violations lead to arrest and criminal charges. By combining speed, clarity, and accessibility, Florida’s repeat violence framework provides an efficient shield for minors without imposing costs or procedural complexity.

Who Can Apply

A parent or legal guardian can apply for a Repeat Violence Injunction on behalf of a minor who resides with them. The law allows guardians, adoptive parents, or court-appointed custodians to act as petitioners if they have primary care of the child. In cases where the minor is emancipated or legally independent (rare but possible, such as a 17-year-old living alone under court order), the minor may file in their own name. Generally, however, the guardian signs the petition, verifies it under oath, and appears in court.

If the respondent is another student, neighbor, or unrelated adult, the parent may base the petition on any two distinct acts of violence or stalking, with one recent event. If the respondent is a parent or stepparent, Florida’s heightened evidence rule applies: the petitioner must have personally witnessed the violence or possess direct physical evidence or affidavits from eyewitnesses. This extra requirement protects the integrity of the process while still granting relief to children truly at risk.

Petitioners do not need attorneys to apply. Every circuit courthouse in Florida provides clerical assistance and access to Form 12.980(f). Many also have onsite domestic violence intake units staffed with victim advocates who assist with form preparation, safety planning, and logistics. All services are free, and staff are trained to support minors and parents in emotionally charged situations. Law enforcement and school officials can also provide corroborating letters or reports that strengthen the petition.

Eligibility criteria remain simple: the child must be a victim of two separate incidents of violence or stalking, at least one within the past six months, and protection must be necessary to prevent immediate danger. No filing fees, bonds, or court costs are required, ensuring that financial limitations never block access. Petitioners can file in the county where they live, where the respondent lives, or where the incidents occurred. Clerks must also protect addresses upon request—particularly for children—through Florida’s Address Confidentiality Program or by filing a Request for Confidential Address. The parent or guardian’s ability to apply quickly, without cost or complexity, is a cornerstone of Florida’s child-protection strategy under this statute.

Benefits of Understanding the Timeline

For parents or guardians protecting a child, understanding the timeline of the injunction process is essential. The entire procedure—from filing to final hearing—usually spans less than three weeks, with immediate protection available the same day. The sequence unfolds as follows: file the petition, obtain an ex parte temporary order (if the judge finds imminent danger), ensure sheriff’s service to the respondent, and attend the full hearing within 15 days. The temporary injunction remains in force until that hearing occurs, ensuring continuous protection.

Knowing these timeframes helps parents coordinate evidence collection, witness preparation, and school notifications efficiently. Because the court acts quickly, every day matters. Parents should gather digital evidence, witness statements, and medical or school documentation immediately after filing. The sheriff’s office typically serves respondents within one to three days; confirming service status early avoids unnecessary extensions or continuances. If service delays occur, courts routinely extend temporary orders to prevent gaps in safety.

The quick turnaround also minimizes financial and emotional strain. All steps—filing, notarization, sheriff’s service, hearings—are free. Avoiding procedural mistakes saves time and prevents having to refile or appear multiple times. Courts also prioritize cases involving minors, often hearing them earlier in the docket to reduce stress on the child. Understanding when to expect each phase helps parents manage schedules, school absences, and emotional preparation.

From a safety perspective, the timeline ensures a seamless transition from immediate danger to sustained legal protection. A well-timed filing means a judge can issue a same-day order, the sheriff can enforce it by evening, and the child can attend school the next day under court-backed safety. Within weeks, a final injunction—lasting months or years—formalizes those boundaries. Mastering the schedule lets parents act with confidence, coordinate with school staff and law enforcement, and guarantee that protection never lapses. In essence, the more clearly a petitioner understands the process flow, the smoother and more cost-free the path to durable child safety becomes.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility and Fit—Minor Cases, Standing, and the “Two Incidents” Rule

Begin by confirming that the facts satisfy Florida’s repeat violence elements and that you (as a parent/legal guardian) have standing to file for the child. Under §784.046, “repeat violence” requires two separate incidents of violence or stalking directed at the victim (here, the minor), with at least one occurring within the six months before filing. “Violence” includes assault, battery, sexual offenses, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal act resulting in injury or death; stalking includes cyberstalking. If, for example, a neighbor shoved your child on campus last November and then threatened them again in March by DM—these are distinct incidents, one within six months, that can qualify. In contrast, multiple threats made during one continuous confrontation generally count as a single incident and will not meet the “repeat” threshold. You do not need a prior police report or criminal case, but contemporaneous documentation strengthens credibility.

Confirm standing. Florida law explicitly grants standing to “the parent or legal guardian of any minor child who is living at home” to file for protection against repeat violence on the child’s behalf. If the respondent is not a parent/stepparent/guardian (e.g., peer, teacher, coach, neighbor), ordinary evidentiary principles apply. If the respondent is a parent, stepparent, or legal guardian of the minor, §784.046 imposes a heightened evidence rule: the filing parent must be an eyewitness or possess direct physical evidence or sworn eyewitness affidavits showing the specific facts supporting relief. This is a frequent pitfall—courts will ask pointedly whether you personally saw the conduct, collected direct proof (photos, medical notes, digital artifacts), or obtained sworn eyewitness statements. Plan for that question from the outset.

Choose the correct injunction type. If the alleged conduct involves a schoolmate or unrelated adult and meets the two-incident rule, Form 12.980(f) (Repeat Violence) is generally right. If the conduct is primarily stalking/cyberstalking (patterns of monitoring, following, or online harassment), a stalking injunction may fit better; if the conduct is sexual violence with unique prerequisites (reporting/cooperation or the respondent’s incarceration), the sexual-violence track may be appropriate. Misclassification risks delay. Florida’s family court materials include comparison charts and form instructions to help self-represented filers select the correct track. When in doubt, review the instructions bundled with 12.980(f) and the statewide comparison handouts provided by the courts.

Check venue and confidentiality. You can file in the county where you live, where the respondent lives, or where an incident occurred. For minors, address confidentiality is often pivotal; many clerk packets include a “Request for Confidential Filing of Address” for sensitive cases. If disclosure of your home address or the child’s school could increase danger, complete those confidentiality steps at filing so protected fields never enter public dockets. Several clerks also publish minor-specific guidance (“If you are under eighteen… a parent/guardian must sign.”) that mirrors the statute.

Finally, align expectations and support. The process is fee-free and clerk-assisted, but it moves quickly: judges review petitions the day of filing or next business day; if ex parte relief is granted, hearings are typically held within 15 days. Victim advocates (often co-located near the intake window) can assist with safety planning tailored to minors—school notifications, pickup list restrictions, and campus security briefings. Your first milestone is eligibility certainty: two incidents (one recent), correct form, standing to file for the child, and—when the respondent is a parent/stepparent—eyewitness/direct-evidence readiness. With those elements locked, you’re positioned to draft a petition that meets the statute head-on and avoids avoidable continuances.

Step 2: Build a Minor-Focused Evidence Record—School, Digital, Medical, and Eyewitness Layers

A strong minor-centered record does two things at once: it proves the statute’s elements and it anticipates the court’s child-safety logistics (school, transport, digital boundaries). Start by creating a chronology for the last 9–12 months. For each alleged incident list: exact date/time, location (school room, bus stop, gym, neighborhood), conduct (quote threats; describe force or stalking behaviors), witnesses (peers, teachers, SROs, neighbors), and artifacts (texts, DMs, snaps, emails, photos, videos, nurse notes). Mark which incident falls within six months. Use neutral language—avoid conclusions like “he’s dangerous”; write exactly what was said or done and what the child did immediately (told teacher, called parent, visited clinic).

For digital evidence (common in youth cases), export message threads to PDF with visible handles and timestamps; if a platform hides these on export, screen-record a slow scroll with the device clock visible and pull still frames showing the key exchanges. Preserve identifiers for anonymous/burner accounts (usernames, profile URLs). For photo/video proof, retain original files to preserve metadata; print clear stills for court binders. Where the respondent is a parent/stepparent/guardian, work toward the statute’s heightened threshold: assemble eyewitness testimony (yours and/or others), direct physical evidence (photos of injuries, damaged property, doorbell footage), or sworn eyewitness affidavits (neighbors, older siblings, teachers). This is essential; the court will ask about it specifically before entering relief in intra-family scenarios.

Loop the school into the record carefully. Ask for campus incident notes or emails confirming reports to staff; many districts will give parents a brief written confirmation even when full investigative files are restricted. Identify potential witnesses: teachers who saw interactions, SROs who separated students, coaches who documented practice conflicts, attendance staff who noted follow-home behaviors. If the respondent is an adult (neighbor/coach) and the child reported to school personnel, request short factual statements from those adults. If they cannot appear, ask whether a sworn declaration is possible; live testimony remains strongest, but sworn statements can corroborate timing and context.

Address medical/clinical touches with minimal friction. A one-page urgent-care summary (“shoulder contusion; patient reports being grabbed at bus stop; date/time stamped”) can be powerful corroboration. Similarly, a counselor’s attendance note (“student presented distressed after parking-lot incident”) can help demonstrate impact without oversharing confidential therapeutic detail. If you anticipate HIPAA or school-privacy concerns, bring your parental consent and request that any sensitive identifiers be redacted; most courts accept reasonable redactions so long as dates and core facts remain readable.

Finally, draft a remedy blueprint now, because the most persuasive petitions ask for terms the court can enforce at 7:30 a.m. on a school day: no contact “by any means” (calls, texts, DMs, tagging/mentions, third-party relays); stay-away distances from the child’s home, school campus, bus stop, after-school program, sports facilities, place of worship, and rec center; and, where co-located (same school/building), logistics such as opposite entrances, staggered passing times, or different lunch waves. For adult respondents, include work/home stay-aways and a prohibition on recording/photographing the child within the radius. For intra-family respondents, tailor any exchange logistics to occur only with law-enforcement standby (if at all). A precise, child-specific ask shows the court you’re solving for safety rather than punishment—exactly what the statute contemplates.

Step 3: Draft and File the Petition—Form 12.980(f), Verification, Ex Parte Relief, and Hearing Setup

Use the Florida Supreme Court–approved Form 12.980(f) and its instructions. In the caption and party sections, identify the minor as the person to be protected and yourself as the parent or legal guardian filing on the child’s behalf. In the allegations, present the two incidents in crisp, chronological blocks—date/time, location, exactly what the respondent did/said, immediate impacts (injury, fear, route change), and any corroboration (witness, incident number, exhibit reference). Explicitly identify which incident occurred within the last six months. If the respondent is a parent/stepparent/guardian, add a short paragraph satisfying the heightened rule: “I personally witnessed…” or “I possess direct physical evidence…” or “Attached are sworn affidavits from eyewitnesses…” Judges look for this language and evidence before issuing relief in intra-family filings. {index=8}

Check the box requesting a temporary (ex parte) injunction if the child faces an immediate and present danger. Tie danger to facts: recency, escalation, proximity to school or home, prior boundary-testing. Because the petition is verified under penalty of perjury, keep it factual and avoid speculation. If address confidentiality is needed, file the clerk’s Request for Confidential Filing of Address at the same time and write “confidential” in the address space as directed by local instructions, preventing public exposure of home or school locations. Clerks must accept these filings without a fee, and many circuits have dedicated intake windows that route petitions to a duty judge the same day.

At filing, ask how service will proceed. The clerk transmits the packet (petition, any temporary order, notice of hearing) to the sheriff for personal service on the respondent at no cost to you. Provide every viable address and time window (home, work, usual hangouts, campus pickup points for adult respondents) and any safety flags for deputies. Temporary orders generally last until the full hearing, which must be set within 15 days unless extended for good cause (e.g., evasion of service); courts are accustomed to extending child-safety orders to prevent protection gaps.

Request child-specific terms in any temporary order: no contact by any means; stay-away distances from home, school, bus stop, after-care, practice fields, and places of worship; and, if co-located, operational restrictions (different entrances, passing-period separation). Ask the clerk about remote appearance options for the final hearing if in-person attendance increases risk or conflicts with school: many courts permit Zoom with advance request, and some allow pre-submission of electronic exhibits referenced in your petition. Obtain certified copies of any temporary order before leaving; keep one on you and give one to school administration and the School Resource Officer so enforcement can occur even before statewide databases update.

Finally, plan for the full hearing immediately—line up witnesses (teachers, SRO, neighbors), print clean exhibits with visible timestamps, and prepare a short, parent-guided testimony outline for the minor if the judge requests limited input. Remember: Florida’s framework is rapid and fee-free by design, but relief hinges on specificity and children’s logistics. A petition that cleanly satisfies the statute, honors the eyewitness/direct-evidence rule where applicable, and proposes precise, school-aware terms gives the court everything it needs to protect the child quickly and effectively.

Step 4: Service of Process—How the Respondent Is Notified and What It Means for Minors

After the petition is filed, the next critical stage is service of process—the legal delivery of the petition, notice of hearing, and any temporary injunction to the respondent. In Florida, personal service is mandatory before a final injunction can be issued. The clerk automatically transmits the documents to the county sheriff’s office, which must attempt service without charging a fee. This applies statewide, ensuring equal access whether you live in Miami-Dade, Duval, or a rural county. The petitioner should provide all known addresses, including work, school, relatives’ homes, and social hangouts. For minors, the parent or guardian supplies these details and may attach recent photos or vehicle descriptions to assist deputies.

When the respondent is another student or youth, law enforcement officers may coordinate with school resource officers to deliver notice discreetly on campus. If the respondent is an adult, deputies serve at home or work, explaining that a court hearing has been scheduled and that contact with the minor is forbidden pending further order. Service triggers enforceability of any temporary injunction—violations after that point become arrestable offenses. Until service occurs, the temporary order is binding in principle but cannot be enforced by arrest, so tracking progress is vital.

Parents should maintain direct contact with the sheriff’s civil division, recording every call and date. If deputies cannot locate the respondent within a few days, request a status update and, if necessary, file a motion to extend the temporary injunction. Florida courts routinely grant these extensions to prevent protection gaps. If the respondent is out of state, the sheriff forwards the documents to the relevant jurisdiction; this may add several days but remains cost-free. For hard-to-find respondents, private process servers are an option, but those fees are voluntary and not required by law.

Address confidentiality remains paramount. When you request it at filing, your and your child’s home addresses will not appear on any public docket or serve packet. Instead, the clerk uses a substitute mailing address or the sheriff’s office address for correspondence. This keeps your residence undisclosed, an important layer of safety for minors. For school-related respondents, coordinate with administrators to prevent accidental contact during service; many schools prefer early-morning delivery when hallways are empty.

Parents should also prepare for the emotional impact of service. Once the respondent learns about the injunction, tensions can escalate temporarily. Discuss safety measures with your child—avoid predictable routes, block contact attempts, and notify the school to watch for any approach. Keep a printed copy of the temporary order on hand and provide one to the school’s security or office staff. These practical steps cost nothing but dramatically improve enforcement readiness. The service phase ends when the sheriff files an affidavit confirming personal delivery, and the case proceeds to the full hearing, usually within ten to fifteen days.

Step 5: Preparing for the Final Hearing—Presenting Evidence and Protecting the Minor’s Dignity

The final hearing is where the judge decides whether to issue a permanent injunction. This is typically held within 15 days of the temporary order unless delayed for good cause. For minor cases, the goal is to present facts clearly while minimizing trauma for the child. The parent or guardian is the primary witness, supported by any teachers, neighbors, or officers who observed the events. The minor may be allowed to speak briefly, but judges are sensitive to age and emotional maturity; testimony is often limited or conducted privately in chambers.

Begin by organizing all evidence into three labeled sets: one for the court, one for you, and one for the respondent. Use tabs or folders marked “Incident #1,” “Incident #2,” and “Additional Evidence.” Include printed screenshots, school reports, photos, police or incident numbers, and witness statements. Arrange them chronologically so that the story reads naturally. Highlight dates within six months to reinforce statutory timing. You can also bring digital backups on a flash drive or phone, but printed copies are required for the judge’s review. All exhibits should be factual and free of commentary—let the evidence speak for itself.

On the day of the hearing, arrive early or log into Zoom ten minutes ahead if remote appearance is allowed. Dress neatly but comfortably. When the case is called, you’ll be placed under oath. Begin with a short, clear summary: “I am the parent of [child’s name]. We are requesting a Repeat Violence Injunction because there have been two incidents of violence directed at my child—one in [month], one in [month]. The most recent occurred within six months.” From there, walk through each incident, referencing your labeled exhibits. Judges appreciate concise, factual presentations.

If the respondent cross-examines or challenges facts, remain calm. The judge will intervene if questions become inappropriate for a child-related matter. Keep your focus on concrete details—time, place, actions, and reactions. If a witness cannot attend, the court may accept a sworn written statement. Remember, there is no cost for any of this: no filing, hearing, or witness fees. After testimony, the judge decides whether the legal standard is met—two separate acts of violence or stalking, one recent, and a demonstrated need for ongoing protection. If granted, the injunction becomes effective immediately. The clerk will prepare a certified copy and transmit it to law enforcement within 24 hours.

Before leaving, review the written order for accuracy. Verify the child’s name, respondent’s information, no-contact distances, school and home addresses, and expiration date. Ask for additional certified copies (typically $2 to $5 each) for schools or childcare facilities. Most parents spend nothing out of pocket unless they request extra copies. Keep one with you at all times. The hearing stage is emotionally intense but marks the turning point where temporary protection becomes enforceable, long-term safety.

Step 6: Implementing and Enforcing the Injunction—Practical Safety and School Coordination

Once the judge signs the final injunction, the focus shifts to implementation. The order is legally binding and enforceable statewide. Within 24 hours, the clerk sends certified copies to the sheriff for entry into the Florida Crime Information Center (FCIC) database, ensuring that any officer in any county can confirm its validity. Parents should deliver additional copies to the child’s school, daycare, and after-school program. Provide administrators and security staff with a short written summary of key provisions—names, stay-away distances, and contact prohibitions. Emphasize that the respondent must not be allowed on campus or near pickup points.

At home, review basic safety routines. Change routes temporarily, inform neighbors, and set up check-in times if the child walks to school. If the injunction includes a firearm surrender clause, ask the sheriff’s office to confirm that surrender was completed. Many agencies notify victims once this step is verified. All these measures cost nothing and dramatically increase safety.

For digital environments, block the respondent across all social media, messaging apps, and phone numbers. If the child uses online learning platforms, alert teachers not to admit the respondent to virtual classes. Save any new harassment attempts as evidence. Violating the injunction through texts, social media, or indirect contact is still a criminal offense.

Maintain a physical and digital folder labeled “Injunction Records.” Store copies of the petition, temporary order, final injunction, proof of service, and any subsequent police reports. Cloud storage with password protection or an encrypted USB drive works best. Keep these accessible but secure. Maintaining organized documentation has no monetary cost but immense value if enforcement or renewal becomes necessary later.

Finally, remind the child that the order is about protection, not punishment. Reassure them that they did the right thing by reporting violence. Maintain normal routines, encourage participation in safe social activities, and coordinate with counselors if needed. Most Florida counties provide post-order advocacy programs at no cost. The injunction phase is the foundation of stability; consistent enforcement and community communication make that stability durable.

Step 7: Handling Violations and Ongoing Enforcement—Your Rights and Next Steps

A violation of the injunction—any contact, appearance within prohibited distances, or indirect communication—constitutes a criminal offense under Florida law. The first step after any breach is to call law enforcement immediately. Provide the officer with a certified copy of the injunction and explain what occurred. Police can arrest the respondent without a warrant if they have probable cause that the order was violated. Always ask for an incident report number and record the responding officer’s name.

Parents should keep a detailed incident log noting date, time, location, description, and any supporting evidence (texts, photos, witness names). Store this in the same digital folder as your injunction documents. Each report strengthens future enforcement or renewal actions. If repeated violations occur, you can also file a motion for contempt or enforcement with the clerk—free of charge. The court may then summon the respondent to explain the behavior and impose sanctions or modify terms for stronger protection.

When violations involve digital harassment or threats through third parties, capture screenshots with visible timestamps and usernames. Avoid engaging directly—communication may complicate prosecution. Instead, block, document, and report. Provide evidence to the responding agency and, if applicable, the state attorney’s victim services unit. These agencies can assist with evidence organization and safety updates at no cost.

If you relocate, update your address confidentially through the clerk’s office using the proper form to ensure continued enforcement. The injunction remains valid anywhere in Florida and is honored nationwide under federal full faith and credit. For schools, update administrative staff whenever the child’s location changes so safety plans remain active.

Costs for enforcement are nonexistent—no filing fees, no service fees, and no charges for police response. Optional expenses, like obtaining extra certified copies or requesting transcripts for future legal use, are minor (a few dollars per copy). In practice, the largest investment is diligence: monitoring compliance, maintaining records, and communicating with law enforcement promptly. Through careful tracking and clear documentation, parents can ensure violations are met with swift consequences and that the injunction continues to serve its core purpose—protecting the child’s peace and safety.

Step 8: Renewal and Extension of the Injunction—Maintaining Protection Beyond the Original Term

Florida’s repeat violence injunctions are typically issued for a specific period—often one year—but they can be renewed or extended as long as the need for protection continues. Parents and guardians of minors should mark the expiration date clearly on their calendar because renewal is not automatic. The process is straightforward and cost-free, but it requires attention to timing and documentation. Begin preparing your renewal request about 30 to 45 days before the current injunction expires. This ensures uninterrupted protection and gives the court enough time to schedule a hearing if necessary.

To renew, file a Motion for Extension of Injunction for Protection Against Repeat Violence with the same clerk’s office that issued the original order. There is no fee for filing or service. In the motion, explain why the injunction is still needed: continued fear, new contact attempts, or ongoing harassment. If the respondent has violated the order, attach police reports, screenshots, or witness statements. If the respondent has stayed away but your child remains fearful due to past trauma or proximity (such as the same school), describe those factors. Judges often grant extensions when there is credible evidence that the threat persists, even if no new incidents have occurred.

For minors, courts are particularly sensitive to long-term safety and emotional stability. A child may need continued protection until they graduate, move schools, or the aggressor relocates. Parents should gather letters from school counselors or administrators confirming ongoing safety concerns. This real-world context helps the court understand why continued protection is reasonable. In many cases, the court will extend the injunction for another year or make it indefinite if the pattern of harassment is severe.

Hearings for renewal follow the same procedure as the initial hearing but tend to be shorter. The judge reviews the motion, hears brief testimony, and decides whether circumstances justify extension. The respondent is entitled to notice and may appear to contest renewal. As always, law enforcement handles service free of charge. After approval, the extended order is transmitted to the Florida Crime Information Center and remains active immediately. For minors nearing adulthood, courts may modify the caption or convert the injunction to protect the now-adult petitioner under the same case number.

Renewal costs remain minimal: $0 for filing, $0 for service, and only a few dollars if you request extra certified copies. The real “investment” is diligence—tracking deadlines, updating addresses, and keeping records current. Renewal ensures that the child’s legal shield remains intact without any lapse, reinforcing the system’s intent to provide continuous, free, and accessible protection for as long as danger exists.

Step 9: Modifying or Dissolving the Injunction—Adapting Orders to Changing Circumstances

Over time, circumstances can change. The respondent may relocate, the child may change schools, or the original conditions may need to be clarified. Florida law allows either party—the petitioner or respondent—to request a modification or dissolution of a repeat violence injunction at any time. This flexibility ensures the order remains relevant and enforceable. The process is initiated by filing a Motion to Modify or Dissolve Injunction with the clerk of court. There are no fees, and the court typically sets a short hearing to evaluate the request.

Modification may be necessary when logistical realities shift. For instance, if both children now attend the same high school, the injunction can be tailored to specify staggered schedules, separate classrooms, or prohibited zones. Similarly, if the respondent has moved and no longer poses an immediate threat, you can request narrower restrictions that focus on digital contact only. Conversely, if new acts of intimidation or stalking occur, the injunction can be broadened to add locations or prohibit indirect contact through friends or social media.

When seeking modification, present updated facts and maintain a respectful tone. Judges appreciate petitioners who balance caution with fairness. Emphasize that your goal is safety, not punishment. Provide any new documentation—emails, texts, or school reports—that supports your request. If the respondent files to dissolve the injunction, be prepared to explain why continued protection remains necessary. Florida judges will not dissolve an injunction unless the petitioner agrees or evidence shows that circumstances have substantially changed to eliminate the threat.

For minors turning eighteen, the injunction can seamlessly continue under the adult’s name. In such cases, file a motion requesting conversion from a child-protection to an adult-protection injunction. This keeps the legal coverage intact without re-filing from scratch. All modifications, whether broadening, narrowing, or converting, remain free of cost and follow the same accessible structure as the initial petition.

If a parent or guardian believes the injunction is no longer needed, a written motion can request dissolution. The judge will hold a short hearing to confirm that the decision is voluntary and that the minor (if old enough) understands the implications. Once dissolved, the order is removed from law enforcement databases. While there are no penalties for ending protection, most advocates recommend consulting a victim-services counselor before taking that step to ensure it aligns with the child’s best interest. Again, the guiding principle is flexibility without financial burden—Florida’s system prioritizes safety while allowing responsive, cost-free legal adjustments.

Step 10: Long-Term Impact and Empowerment—Building Safety and Stability Beyond the Courtroom

Securing a repeat violence injunction for a minor is not just a legal milestone—it’s a foundation for long-term safety, emotional recovery, and empowerment. Once the immediate threat is neutralized, families can focus on stability and healing. The injunction offers peace of mind, but it’s equally important to help the child rebuild confidence and trust in their surroundings. This step involves continued coordination with schools, community programs, and support networks to ensure the protection order translates into everyday safety.

Start by maintaining open communication with the school and law enforcement. Update them annually or whenever circumstances change. Most schools retain copies of injunctions in secure administrative files, but parents should confirm that new teachers, counselors, and bus staff are informed. Local law enforcement agencies can perform wellness checks upon request and keep your address flagged for priority response. These services are free and help sustain the sense of security that the injunction created.

Emotional recovery is equally vital. Exposure to violence or threats can cause lingering anxiety, especially in children. Florida offers a network of victim-assistance programs, including counseling, advocacy, and support groups—all without cost. Parents can contact the Florida Domestic Violence Hotline or local victim-services offices for referrals. Building routines—consistent school attendance, hobbies, and family activities—restores normalcy. Encourage the child to express fears openly and celebrate milestones: returning to a favorite activity, forming new friendships, or achieving improved grades after stress.

Legally, keep the injunction documentation accessible. Even years later, these records may be needed for background checks, school transfers, or safety planning. Store digital copies in secure cloud storage. Renewal reminders can be set on calendars to avoid expiration lapses. Once the child reaches adulthood, they can assume control of the injunction, modify it, or request dissolution as circumstances allow. This transfer empowers them to take ownership of their safety and legal rights.

From a broader perspective, the injunction process teaches minors and parents about the justice system’s protective role. It demonstrates that the law can act swiftly, fairly, and compassionately—without imposing financial or procedural hurdles. Understanding this builds civic confidence and resilience. By keeping meticulous records, maintaining communication with authorities, and seeking renewal when appropriate, families transform a temporary court order into a long-term framework of empowerment. The ultimate success of an injunction is not just measured in safety but in the restoration of peace and confidence for the child and family it protects.

Associated Costs

Florida’s system for injunctions against repeat violence—including those filed on behalf of minors—is intentionally designed to be cost-free. The legislature recognized that victims, especially children and their families, should not be hindered by financial barriers when seeking safety. Therefore, under Florida Statute §784.046(6)(a), clerks of court are prohibited from collecting filing fees, service fees, or charges of any kind from a petitioner. The sheriff’s office is likewise required to serve the respondent with the petition, notice of hearing, and temporary injunction at no cost. This principle extends statewide—whether filing in Broward County or a small rural circuit, families pay nothing to access protection.

Because the process is free, families can focus on gathering documentation and preparing for court without worrying about hidden charges. The only optional expenses arise when petitioners choose to make extra certified copies for personal or institutional use, such as providing one to the child’s school, daycare, or after-school program. These certified copies usually cost between $2 and $5 each. All other documents—petition, evidence attachments, sheriff service packets, and hearing notices—are included without charge. If you request confidentiality of address, clerks process that form free of cost as well. The guiding intent is that safety should never depend on a parent’s ability to pay.

For families who prefer private service rather than waiting for the sheriff, hiring a licensed process server is an option, but entirely voluntary. Private service fees typically range from $40 to $75 depending on mileage, but sheriff service is already guaranteed and free. Parents often choose sheriff service because it is recognized by all Florida courts, provides official proof of service, and ensures immediate enforcement by law enforcement agencies. This documentation becomes especially important if the respondent violates the injunction later.

If the respondent damages property or incurs costs while violating the injunction, parents can seek reimbursement through a separate civil action, but those expenses are unrelated to filing the injunction itself. Likewise, obtaining transcripts, copies of hearing recordings, or certified orders for out-of-state enforcement may carry small administrative fees, yet these remain optional and typically under $10.

In short, the state of Florida covers virtually all costs connected to filing, serving, and enforcing a repeat violence injunction. The process is designed to remove financial friction so victims can act quickly. By eliminating fees, the courts ensure that every minor—regardless of their family’s income—has full access to the protection guaranteed under law. The only “cost” left is the time invested in preparation and diligence, not money. This cost-free structure has been cited by judges and victim advocates alike as a cornerstone of Florida’s commitment to safety and equal access to justice.

Time Required

The timeline for a repeat violence injunction moves swiftly, prioritizing safety and minimizing procedural delay. After the petition is filed, a judge typically reviews it within 24 hours. If the allegations describe immediate danger, the court may issue a temporary (ex parte) injunction the same day—often within hours. This temporary order provides instant, enforceable protection until the full hearing occurs.

Once a temporary order is granted, the clerk immediately sends the paperwork to the sheriff for personal service on the respondent. Service usually takes one to three days, depending on the respondent’s location and cooperation. During this time, the temporary injunction remains active. If service is delayed, the court can extend the temporary order to prevent any lapse in protection. The final hearing must occur within 15 days unless the judge finds good cause for delay (for example, if the respondent evades service).

The hearing itself rarely lasts more than an hour. Both parties present testimony and evidence, after which the judge decides whether to issue a final injunction. If granted, the order takes effect immediately and is entered into the statewide law-enforcement database within 24 hours. Families can expect full legal protection—recognized by all Florida agencies—by the next day.

Overall, the average duration from filing to final judgment is 10 to 20 days. This timeline may extend slightly if continuances are necessary or if additional witnesses are required. Compared to most civil matters, the injunction process is exceptionally fast. The expedited schedule reflects legislative intent: physical safety cannot wait for procedural formalities.

For minors, this quick turnaround means parents can secure legal protection before threats escalate. A same-day temporary order removes the immediate danger; the two-week window to hearing allows time for careful evidence preparation. Courts balance urgency with fairness, ensuring both due process for respondents and rapid relief for victims. The result is a process that delivers safety in days, not months—all without any fees.

Limitations and Key Considerations

While Florida’s injunction system is robust and protective, it operates within specific boundaries that parents must understand. First, the petitioner must demonstrate two separate incidents of violence or stalking, and at least one must have occurred within the six months preceding filing. Repeated threats or messages from a single confrontation do not qualify as “two incidents.” Courts are strict about this requirement to ensure fairness and consistency across cases.

Second, the parent or guardian must have personal knowledge of the incidents. If the alleged abuser is the child’s parent or stepparent, Florida Statute §784.046(2)(b) demands that the petitioner either witnessed the acts personally, possesses direct physical evidence, or submits sworn eyewitness affidavits. Without these, the petition may be denied, even if abuse is suspected. This safeguard prevents misuse of injunctions in contentious family disputes while preserving the child’s safety through verifiable evidence.

Third, the injunction is civil in nature—it does not award damages or financial compensation. Its sole purpose is to prevent contact and ensure physical safety. Violations are criminal offenses, but the injunction itself does not create monetary recovery rights. For financial or property losses, a separate civil lawsuit must be filed.

Fourth, while injunctions can be extended indefinitely, they do not automatically renew. Parents must file a renewal motion before expiration, demonstrating ongoing need. Courts typically extend protection if credible fear remains. Failure to renew results in expiration, after which enforcement ends.

Finally, petitioners must ensure compliance and documentation. Always carry a certified copy of the order, inform the child’s school and local police, and record any violation details. Maintaining current information with the clerk—especially addresses and phone numbers—is critical for ongoing communication and enforcement. These measures are free but require consistent attention.

In summary, Florida’s repeat violence injunction system for minors offers rapid, cost-free protection but demands accurate evidence and ongoing diligence. The limits—proof of two separate acts, verifiable evidence, and renewal duties—preserve judicial integrity while upholding safety. Understanding these rules allows parents to navigate the process confidently and ensures that protection remains strong, lawful, and continuously enforced.

Authoritative References

• Florida Statutes §784.046 — Injunction for Protection Against Repeat, Dating, or Sexual Violence
• Florida Family Law Form 12.980(f) — Petition for Injunction for Protection Against Repeat Violence
• Florida Courts — Overview for Petitioners
• Florida Senate Official Statute Text (2024 Edition)