How Long Does a Domestic Violence Injunction Last?

According to Florida law, ex-parte domestic violence injunctions are effective for a fixed period not exceeding 15 days. However, if necessary, the court may grant a continuance to extend the Domestic Violence injunction beyond this time frame:

(c) Any such ex parte temporary injunction shall be effective for a fixed period not to exceed 15 days. A full hearing, as provided by this section, shall be set for a date no later than the date when the temporary injunction ceases to be effective. The court may grant a continuance of the hearing before or during a hearing for good cause shown by any party, which shall include a continuance to obtain service of process. Any injunction shall be extended if necessary to remain in full force and effect during any period of continuance.

 

See: Florida Statute 741.30(5)(c)

Section 741.30(1) authorizes injunctions for protection against domestic violence, and provides that the trial court may grant a temporary injunction ex parte where an immediate and present danger of domestic violence exists. § 741.30(5)(a), Fla. Stat. (2012). “Any such ex parte temporary injunction shall be effective for a fixed period not to exceed 15 days. A full hearing, as provided by this section, shall be set for a date no later than the date when the temporary injunction ceases to be effective.” § 741.30(5)(c), Fla. Stat. (2012). A temporary injunction was entered ex parte against Mr. Dietz on March 27, 2013, and the parties were ordered to appear for a full evidentiary hearing on April 2, 2013.