How to get text messages with a subpoena in Orlando, FL

To use text messages in a Florida injunction hearing, you usually must authenticate them—show the judge they really came from the other person. Screenshots can work, but in contested cases you may need carrier records or a properly issued nonparty subpoena. This page explains practical options and the basic notice-and-wait steps used to request records from providers.

Injunctions (also known as restraining orders) can have serious consequences. In many stalking injunction and domestic violence injunction cases, organized, credible text-message evidence can be the difference between a temporary order being dismissed or becoming final.

This video explains how to get text messages admitted at an injunction hearing in Florida and, when needed, how to pursue third-party records (like AT&T or Verizon) to prove you are being harassed—or to prove you did not send the messages.

Text messages in injunction hearings: the three common options

Text messages can be admitted in Florida courts, but the judge may require a foundation showing the messages are authentic. In practice, most cases use one (or more) of these approaches:

1. Screenshots of messages (with context, dates/times, and a clear timeline)
2. Phone/account records showing numbers, dates, and activity (sometimes without full content)
3. Nonparty subpoenas to providers for records (often the most time-consuming and expensive)

Practical tip: In many injunction hearings, screenshots plus clear testimony can be enough. But if the other side claims “spoofing,” “fake texts,” or “someone else sent them,” you may need stronger corroboration (carrier logs, device history, IP-related records, or other circumstantial proof).

When subpoenas matter

Subpoenas can be useful when (a) the sender is disputed, (b) the communications are voluminous, or (c) you need records to rebut an accusation.
If you’re the respondent and the injunction has criminal exposure, review:
Can I go to jail for violating an injunction?

A simple four-step roadmap for nonparty records

Florida procedure for obtaining documents from nonparties commonly involves notice, a waiting period for objections, and then issuance/service of the subpoena.

• STEP 1: Serve notice of your intent to subpoena nonparty records.A commonly referenced form is Florida Courts’ “Notice of Production from Nonparty” (Form 12.931(a)). You typically must also provide notice to the other party (or their attorney).
• STEP 2: Wait for objections.There is usually a short objection window. If the other side objects, you may need a hearing before the subpoena can proceed.
• STEP 3: Obtain issuance/signature and serve the subpoena on the provider.After the objection window expires (and assuming no court order blocks it), the subpoena is issued/signed and served on the nonparty custodian of records. Providers often require specific wording, return instructions, and payment for processing.
• STEP 4: Produce the records and prepare them for the hearing.Once received, records usually must be provided to the other side (or made available) and organized into exhibits with a clear timeline.

What if the other side claims spoofing or fake texts?

Spoofing claims usually require a more organized approach. You may need to lock in details through discovery (where allowed),
then seek provider/device records to corroborate what happened. If you’re dealing with cyberstalking issues, you may also find this helpful:
Grounds for a cyberstalking injunction in Florida.

Need help preparing for an injunction hearing?

Whether you are seeking protection or defending against accusations, the hearing comes fast, and the evidence needs to be organized. Start with our main hub: Restraining Orders & Injunctions, or read: How to fight a restraining order in Florida.

Important: This is general educational information, not legal advice. Injunction procedure can vary by court and case posture. If you need help, call (407) 574-7576.