If I am in immediate danger, what should I do first?

Call 911. Injunctions are a legal remedy, not an emergency response. Once you are safe, a petition can be filed the same day the court is open.

How long does an injunction last?

A temporary injunction generally lasts up to 15 days until the final hearing. A final injunction may be entered for a fixed term or without an expiration date.

What if the allegations against me are false?

Attend the hearing with counsel and evidence. A final injunction affects firearm rights, housing, and employment; the first hearing is your real opportunity to contest it.

Does an injunction affect time-sharing?

It can. Courts may set temporary time-sharing terms, including supervised exchanges, within the injunction itself.

Domestic Violence

Protection when it is needed, and defense when a claim is untrue.

An injunction for protection - often called a restraining order - can require an abuser to stay away, vacate a shared home, surrender firearms, and follow temporary time-sharing terms. Petitions are heard quickly, and a temporary injunction can issue the same day.

These cases move fast in both directions. A final injunction carries lasting consequences for housing, employment, and firearm rights, so a wrongly accused party needs to be ready at the first hearing.

How we help

Prepare and file petitions with the specific facts a judge needs to grant relief.
Represent petitioners at the final hearing, coordinating with any related divorce or paternity case.
Defend respondents against unfounded or exaggerated allegations, including those filed for leverage in a divorce.
Address the ripple effects: temporary time-sharing, exclusive use of the home, and support.

Frequently asked questions

DiMaggio Law Offices represents clients in domestic violence matters throughout South Florida, including Fort Lauderdale, Sunrise, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Coral Gables, Miami, Miami Beach, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach and Delray Beach.