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Legal Information: Florida

Restraining Orders

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Updated: 
October 6, 2023

How much does it cost? Do I need a lawyer?

There is no fee for filing a petition for an injunction for protection against domestic violence.1 

You can represent yourself throughout the process of seeking an injunction for protection against domestic violence.2  When you represent yourself, it is called going to court “pro se.”  Many people have been successful in getting injunctions when they have gone pro se, however, in many situations it would be to your advantage to have an attorney to help you through this process. (This is especially true if the abuser has an attorney or child custody issues are involved.) If you cannot afford an attorney, one of the legal services providers listed on our FL Finding a Lawyer page may be able to assist you.

If you do not want to or cannot hire an attorney, you might want to think about finding an advocate who can help you go through the process of obtaining an injunction. Having another person give you support through this process can be a tremendous help.  You will find someone who can help and who knows the system by contacting a local domestic violence organization in your area on our FL Advocates and Shelters page.

1 Fla. Stat. § 741.30(2)(a)
2 Fla. Stat. § 741.30(1)(f)

If you are going to be in court without a lawyer, our Preparing for Court – By Yourself section may be useful to you.