Have you been threatened, harassed, or experienced violence in Lakeland, Florida? Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys can help you take legal action to protect yourself. Call (863) 688-4606 today to schedule an initial consultation with a Lakeland criminal defense lawyer who understands the injunction process and your rights under Florida law.
Filing for an injunction—commonly known as a restraining order—can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. This guide walks you through each step and explains how working with an experienced attorney can make the process smoother, safer, and more effective.
Why Choose Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help With an Injunction in Lakeland?
When you’re facing the emotional and legal challenges of filing for an injunction in Lakeland, FL, experience and strategy matter. Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys serves the area with decades of proven advocacy and a deep understanding of the local legal system.
Here’s what makes our team stand out:
- We bring over 25 years of combined experience to each case, helping clients navigate high-stakes legal matters with confidence and compassion.
- Our attorneys employ a strategic, well-informed approach to every case, informed by decades of experience in criminal defense practice.
- We’ve built a strong reputation for fearless and determined advocacy, whether negotiating with prosecutors or representing clients in court.
- Our team is deeply familiar with the Polk County court system, giving us valuable insight into local procedures, judges, and opposing counsel.
If you need help, call today to schedule an initial consultation with a Lakeland criminal defense attorney.
Steps To Filing an Injunction in Lakeland, Florida
If you’re concerned about your safety, filing for an injunction in Florida can provide immediate legal protection. The process may feel overwhelming, but understanding each step can help you feel more confident and prepared.
Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the injunction process in Lakeland and Polk County.
Step 1: Identify the Right Type of Injunction
Florida law recognizes five types of injunctions for protection:
- Domestic violence injunction: For those who live with or have lived with the respondent, including spouses, partners, or family members.
- Dating violence injunction: Applies to individuals in a romantic or intimate relationship within the past six months.
- Sexual violence injunction: For victims of sexual assault or related crimes, whether or not charges were filed.
- Repeat violence injunction: Requires at least two incidents of violence or threats, one within the last six months.
- Stalking injunction: Covers both physical and cyberstalking behaviors.
Choosing the correct injunction type ensures your petition is considered under the right legal framework.
Step 2: Complete the Required Forms
To begin the process, you’ll need to fill out the appropriate petition forms. These can be obtained:
- In person at the Polk County Clerk of Courts (Lakeland or Bartow locations)
- Online through the Florida Courts website or the Clerk’s portal
The forms ask for detailed information about your relationship with the respondent, the specific incidents that led to your request, and any supporting evidence (texts, photos, police reports, or witness names).
Be as clear and specific as possible—your written account helps the judge decide whether to grant a temporary injunction.
Step 3: File Your Petition With the Clerk
Once the forms are completed, submit them to the Clerk of Court in Polk County. In Lakeland, you can file at the Lakeland Branch Courthouse or the main office in Bartow. Bring:
- A valid photo ID
- Any evidence you want the court to review
The clerk will process your petition and forward it to a judge for immediate review.
Step 4: Wait for the Judge’s Initial Review
A judge will typically review your petition the same day it is filed. If the judge finds that your safety is at immediate risk, they may issue a temporary injunction—also known as an ex parte order—without notifying the respondent.
This temporary injunction remains in effect until the full hearing, usually scheduled within 15 days. It can include restrictions such as no contact, surrendering firearms, or staying away from specific locations.
Step 5: Serve the Respondent
After a temporary order is issued (or even if it’s denied), the respondent must be formally served with:
- A copy of your petition
- Any temporary injunction
- A notice of the final hearing date
You cannot serve the papers yourself. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office typically handles service. It’s important to provide accurate contact information for the respondent so the service can be completed promptly.
Step 6: Attend the Court Hearing
The final hearing is your chance to present evidence and explain to the judge why a permanent injunction is necessary. The respondent also has the right to appear and present their side.
What to expect at the hearing:
- Both parties may testify and submit evidence
- Witnesses can be called
- Each side may cross-examine the other
Having an attorney represent you can be crucial—especially if the respondent has legal counsel.
Step 7: Get the Final Decision
After hearing from both sides, the judge will decide whether to issue a final injunction. If granted, it can last for a specific period or be made permanent.
The final order may include:
- No contact or proximity restrictions
- Firearm prohibitions
- Custody or visitation limitations (in domestic violence cases)
Make several copies of the order and notify relevant parties—such as employers, schools, or landlords—to ensure the injunction is enforced.
Can an Injunction Be Changed or Removed Later?
Injunctions in Florida can be modified, extended, or dismissed, but you must go through the court. Either party can file a motion to:
- Change the terms (such as lifting a no-contact order for co-parenting)
- Extend the injunction if threats or abuse continue
- Dismiss the injunction if both parties agree or if circumstances have changed
A judge will schedule a hearing and review evidence before making any changes. If you’re the respondent, you also have the right to request modification or termination—but legal representation is strongly advised.
Schedule a Case Evaluation With a Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you’re considering filing for an injunction in Lakeland, Florida, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Whether you’ve been threatened, stalked, or subjected to violence, taking legal action can be a critical step toward reclaiming your safety and peace of mind.
Call Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a consultation with an experienced Lakeland criminal defense lawyer and learn how we can help you protect yourself with a well-prepared and legally sound injunction filing.