Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult - Orlando, FL

An injunction for protection against exploitation of a vulnerable adult can help protect an elderly or disabled loved one from financial abuse, scams, coercion, or other exploitation. Florida law allows a court to enter fast, enforceable restrictions when there is exploitation or a real, imminent danger of exploitation—often before more damage is done.

People sometimes take advantage of the vulnerable—and it can happen quietly, through pressure, deception, or control over money, property, or benefits.
Florida created a specific civil remedy for this: an injunction for protection against exploitation of a vulnerable adult.

The governing statute is Florida Statute § 825.1035.
(This cause of action was created in 2019 and remains a key tool to stop exploitation early.)

Who can file for a vulnerable adult exploitation injunction?

Under the statute, the court can consider granting protection when there is exploitation or an imminent danger of exploitation. As currently written, common categories of petitioners include:

1. A vulnerable adult in imminent danger of being exploited;
2. The guardian of a vulnerable adult in imminent danger of being exploited;
3. A person or organization acting on behalf of the vulnerable adult with the consent of the vulnerable adult or his or her guardian; or
4. A person who simultaneously files a petition for determination of incapacity and appointment of an emergency temporary guardian with respect to the vulnerable adult.

How does the court evaluate “reasonable cause” and imminent danger?

Every case is fact-specific. Courts typically look at the total picture—what happened, what is likely to happen next, and what evidence supports the petition.
The statute identifies factors the court may evaluate, including:

1. The existence of a verifiable order of protection issued previously (including from another jurisdiction).
2. Any history of exploitation by the respondent upon the vulnerable adult in the petition (or another vulnerable adult).
3. Any history of the vulnerable adult being previously exploited or unduly influenced.
4. The capacity of the vulnerable adult to make decisions related to finances and property.
5. Susceptibility of the vulnerable adult to undue influence.
6. Any known criminal history of the respondent or any prior probable-cause findings by Adult Protective Services, if known.

How Fighter Law can help

These cases move quickly. Whether you are seeking protection for a loved one or defending against allegations,
careful preparation matters—clear testimony, organized exhibits, and a focused legal theory.
For broader guidance on civil injunction strategy, visit our main hub for Restraining Orders & Injunctions.

• If you’re seeking protection as a petitioner: How to get a restraining order in Florida.
• If you were served (respondent defense): Respondent help for Florida injunction cases.
• For practical defense guidance: How to fight a restraining order in Florida.
• If you’re worried about criminal exposure (violations, firearm issues, arrest risk): Restraining orders & criminal charges in Florida.

If you are a vulnerable adult (or know someone who is), call us at (407) 574-7576 to talk through next steps.
If there’s immediate risk, consider contacting law enforcement or Adult Protective Services first, then follow up with counsel to put the right evidence in front of the judge.