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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 to file a petition for protection against stalking.1  You do not need a lawyer to file for one or to defend yourself if someone files against you2 but it may be helpful to have one, especially if the other party has one or if the case goes to trial.  For free and paid legal referrals, go to our FL Finding a Lawyer page.  If you are going to be representing yourself, you can find tips for what to expect in court and how to prepare yourself on our At the Hearing page.

1 Fla. Stat. § 784.0485(2)(a)
2 Fla. Stat. § 784.0485(1)(d)

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