(561) 988-8000 If you have been served with an injunction, understanding the weight of this order is crucial. Violating a protective order is a criminal offense with serious and immediate consequences. An order is designed to protect alleged victims from harassment, violence, stalking, or threats. These can be injunctions against domestic violence, repeat violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual violence.
Respondents must strictly comply with the terms of these protective orders. You may be accused of violating a protective order. A skilled criminal defense Attorney at Leifert & Leifert can fight on your behalf to protect your rights and your freedom and mitigate the consequences of violating a protective order in Broward County.
What Constitutes a Violation?
A violation of a protective order occurs when a Defendant or Respondent knowingly disobeys a provision of an injunction. Examples of violations include calling, texting, or emailing a petitioner. It can also include showing up at the individual’s home, workplace, or school or sending messages through third parties. Posting about the petitioner on social media or possessing firearms in violation of an order can result in serious consequences.
Keep in mind that even unintentional or misunderstood actions relating to a protective order can lead to an arrest and severe consequences. An Attorney can intervene to ensure that the terms of an injunction are clear. Law enforcement can arrest a Defendant for a violation without a warrant, and a Judge can order immediate detention without bond.
Criminal Charges and Penalties
Florida statutes consider violations of these orders to be first-degree misdemeanors. As a result, you may face up to one year in jail and up to $1,000 in fines. Violating a protective order in Broward County can also lead to probation, intervention programs, and mandatory counseling.
Additional penalties may be imposed if additional crimes are involved. These include assault, stalking, or entering a home unlawfully. As a result, the charge could be upgraded to a Felony. This could lead to up to five years in a state prison, $5,000 in fines, and loss of firearm rights. A permanent criminal record can also have serious consequences, including restrictions on where the Defendant can live or work.
The Long-Term Impact of Violations
Criminal punishments in Broward County after a protective order violation do not take into account other consequences, including loss of employment, damage to professional licensing, and immigration consequences. Violations of injunctions cannot be sealed or expunged in most cases. This means that the offense will stay on your record permanently. These violations can also negatively impact family law cases, including custody matters.
Contact Us to Discuss the Consequences of Violating a Protective Order in Broward County
The consequences of violating a protective order in Broward County are serious. It is important to work with an Attorney who understands the nuances of these types of cases. Our team at Leifert & Leifert can review the allegations and the injunction and investigate if the violation actually occurred. We will also represent you at every Court appearance, ensuring your rights are represented. We will help you avoid or minimize criminal penalties.
We will help you navigate the system with confidence. If you are accused of violating an order, call us for a free initial consultation. Our team can start building a strategy tailored to your needs and case.
