If you are a victim of any act of domestic violence or have reasonable cause to believe that you are in imminent danger of becoming a victim of domestic violence, you can ask the Court for a protective order prohibiting domestic violence. Selecting an incorrect form may result in additional processing time.
NOTE: Please carefully review the instructions that precede each form. There are five types of petitions for restraining orders, including:Īdditional explanation regarding each type is available in the sections below select a type that best corresponds to your relationship with the respondent, and fits your situation. If you fail to attend, you could be held in contempt of court and the Judge could dismiss the injunction. Appearance Required and Injunction Hearing - You are required to appear for the hearing.
Learn more about SPARCC's programs and services.
The SPARCC VICTIM HOTLINE (941) 365-1976 or toll free (877) 365-1976 (DeSoto) is answered 24 hours per day to provide immediate response to the needs of callers. SPARCC also provides safety planning, crisis counseling and emergency shelter for victims, and their families. All of SPARCC's services are free and confidential, such as assistance with filing for injunctions, a shelter operating 24 hours per day/365 days per year, court advocacy, children's services, and more. The Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) is the only state-certified center for domestic violence and sexual assault services for Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, with multiple locations throughout both counties.