🛡️ How to File a Restraining Order (Injunction for Protection) in Duval County, FL

✅ Step 1: Know Which Type of Injunction You Need

Florida offers several types of injunctions:

1. Domestic Violence Injunction – For violence or threats from a spouse, ex, family member, someone you live with, or share a child with.

2. Dating Violence Injunction – For abuse or threats from someone you’ve had a romantic relationship with in the past 6 months.

3. Repeat Violence Injunction – For abuse or threats from someone you are not romantically involved with (like a neighbor, coworker).

4. Sexual Violence Injunction

5. Stalking or Cyberstalking Injunction

✅ Step 2: Go to the Domestic Violence Intake Office

In Person (Recommended for Immediate Protection):
Go to the Duval County Courthouse:

📍 Duval County Clerk of Court – Domestic Violence Department
Address:
Duval County Courthouse
501 W. Adams Street, Room 2409
Jacksonville, FL 32202
🕒 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📞 Phone: (904) 255-2211

You’ll fill out a sworn petition explaining the abuse or threats, and request protection.

✅ Step 3: Fill Out the Required Forms

You can complete the forms at the courthouse or online (see below). You'll need to describe the incidents clearly and provide any evidence (photos, messages, etc.).

Online Form Access:
🔗 https://www.duvalclerk.com (search for “Domestic Violence Injunction”)
🔗 Florida Courts Forms: https://www.flcourts.gov (search “Injunction for Protection”)

✅ Step 4: Judge Review & Temporary Injunction

• A judge will review your petition the same day.

• If the judge believes you're in immediate danger, they will issue a Temporary Injunction (good for 15 days).

• A hearing date will be scheduled for a Final Injunction (which can last longer, even permanently).

✅ Step 5: Attend the Hearing

• Both you and the respondent (abuser) will be notified of the hearing date.

• Bring any evidence, witnesses, or police reports with you.

• You can request a court advocate to support you (see below).

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🧡 Helpful Local Resources

💒 Hubbard House (Duval County Domestic Violence Shelter)

• Provides court advocacy, legal help, and emergency shelter

• 📞 24-Hour Hotline: (904) 354-3114

• 🌐 https://www.hubbardhouse.org

⚖️ Court Victim Services (City of Jacksonville)

• Advocacy and help with filing injunctions

• 📞 (904) 630-6300

🚨 Emergency?

If you're in immediate danger, call 911.