What Happens After an Injunction Is Violated in Florida?

Once an injunction is in place, the rules matter. Even brief or unintended contact can trigger law enforcement involvement. This page explains what happens if a respondent violates an injunction in Florida, how police typically respond, and what both sides should understand moving forward.

Violations only apply after the court has entered an enforceable order—see what happens after an injunction is granted in Florida.

What Counts as a Violation of an Injunction?

A violation occurs when a respondent does something the injunction order prohibits. Common examples include:

• Contacting the petitioner by phone, text, email, or social media
• Showing up at restricted locations (home, work, school)
• Indirect contact through friends, family, or third parties
• Failing to surrender firearms or ammunition as ordered
• Ignoring distance or stay-away requirements

The exact language of the injunction controls. Courts enforce what is written, not what feels reasonable.

What Happens When Police Are Called for an Injunction Violation?

When law enforcement responds to an alleged injunction violation, officers typically review:

• The injunction order itself
• What conduct is being alleged
• Whether there is probable cause to believe a violation occurred

If officers believe a violation occurred, they may make an arrest even if the petitioner asks them not to. Injunction violations are treated as serious matters under Florida law.

For a broader discussion of collateral consequences, see the consequences of an injunction in Florida.

Is Violating an Injunction a Criminal Offense?

Yes. Violating an injunction is a criminal offense in Florida. Depending on the circumstances, it may result in:

• Arrest
• New criminal charges
• Jail time or probation
• Additional or extended injunction restrictions

If you are accused of a violation, this becomes a criminal defense issue, not just a family or civil court matter.

Criminal Defense for Violation of an Injunction

Because injunction violations can lead to criminal charges, it is critical to understand your rights and options early. You can learn more about defending these cases here:

Violation of Injunction – Florida Criminal Defense

Early legal guidance can help determine whether a violation actually occurred, whether the order was properly served, and whether the evidence supports criminal charges.

If you are accused of violating an injunction or restraining order, talk to a defense lawyer right away—visit our criminal defense for restraining orders and injunctions page.

What Petitioners Should (and Should Not) Do After a Violation

If you believe an injunction has been violated:

• Document the incident clearly (dates, times, screenshots)
• Contact law enforcement if appropriate
• Do not respond or escalate the situation
• Do not encourage contact to “test” the order

Courts take violations seriously, but credibility and documentation matter.

What Respondents Should Do Immediately If Accused

If you are accused of violating an injunction:

• Do not contact the petitioner
• Do not attempt to explain your side directly
• Preserve evidence that supports your version of events
• Speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible

Many violation cases turn on misunderstandings, false assumptions, or incomplete information. Early advice matters.

Florida Law Governing Injunction Violations

Florida statutes make injunction violations criminal offenses. Relevant statutory authority includes:

• Fla. Stat. § 741.31 – Violation of Domestic Violence Injunction
• Fla. Stat. § 784.047 – Violation of Repeat/Dating/Sexual Violence Injunction

For a broader overview of injunction law, visit the Fighter Law hub:
Florida Restraining Orders & Injunctions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be arrested for a first-time injunction violation?

Yes. Even a first alleged violation may result in arrest if law enforcement believes probable cause exists.

What if the petitioner contacted me first?

You are still required to follow the injunction. Responding may itself be considered a violation.

Do all violations result in jail time?

No. Outcomes vary based on the facts, prior history, and court discretion. However, the risk of criminal penalties is real.

Can an injunction be modified after a violation?

In some cases, courts may modify or extend injunctions after violations, depending on the circumstances.

Should I hire a criminal defense lawyer for an injunction violation?

Yes. An injunction violation is a criminal matter, and early legal guidance can be critical.

Important: This page provides general information and is not legal advice. Every case is different.