This is the next post in a series of articles discussing seeking a temporary protective order in Melbourne, Florida. Our previous post reviewed the process for presenting a request for a TPO to the court. It also stressed the importance of retaining a knowledgeable attorney to represent one’s interests. In this article, we will address what one should do after a TPO has been issued to help ensure one’s ongoing safety. If you are in immediate danger, contact the police. If you need assistance obtaining a protective order, contact our office today to speak with a Melbourne lawyer.
Parties must comply with the TPO’s restrictions after granted by a Melbourne court
The court’s primary concern when asked to issue a TPO is protecting the victim. To help ensure one’s ongoing safety once a protective order is in place, it is imperative for the victim to also comply with the temporary protective order. This means that after a protective order is issued, the victim should avoid contact with the offending party whenever possible. Staying away from locations where the defendant is known to frequent will help prevent confrontations that could put one at unnecessary risk. A protected party should also consider making several copies of the order and keeping a copy in the glove box of their vehicle. By doing so, the victim will be able to provide the order to law enforcement should a violation occur while away from home. Depending upon the situation, it may also be necessary to notify one’s employer if under the protection of a TPO. If the offender contacts one’s employer or shows up at one’s place of employment, the employer will be aware of the situation and be able to notify the authorities as needed.
Violations of a protective order should be reported to Melbourne area law enforcement immediately
All violations of protective orders should be reported to the police immediately. Violations should also be communicated to one’s attorney as soon as possible after law enforcement has been notified. Reporting the violations is crucial to maintaining an existing protective order. Failing to do so may not only encourage additional bad behavior by the defendant, but may also result in the court’s determination that an ongoing order is unnecessary. Depending on the severity of the violation, the police may arrest the defendant or issue an official warning that the person has violated a court order. In addition, failure to comply may result in the judge holding the defendant in contempt of court, leading to potential jail time or fines.
If you or a loved one need assistance obtaining an order of protection, contact us today to speak with a Melbourne TPO attorney. Our office also serves clients in the cities of Titusville, Cocoa, Palm Bay, Grant, Valkaria, and Rockledge, as well as in the Indian River County areas of Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Orchid.