A domestic violence injunction can change the time you spend with your children. Florida courts may establish a temporary parenting plan or restrict time-sharing when issuing an injunction. The impact depends on the terms of the order and the facts of the case.
What happens to your current parenting schedule?
An injunction may change your existing time-sharing arrangement. Under Florida’s domestic violence injunction law, a court can establish temporary parenting provisions that address contact with children and safe exchanges. If the court includes temporary parenting provisions in the injunction, those terms may change your existing schedule while they remain in effect. Read the order carefully to understand what contact and exchanges are permitted.
Some orders may allow limited contact under specific conditions, while others may restrict or supervise visits. Do not assume your usual schedule still applies without checking the order.
Can a judge restrict or supervise your visits?
Courts may order supervised time-sharing or impose other restrictions when the evidence warrants them. The right arrangement depends on the facts of the case and the terms of the court’s order.
Violating an injunction or court-ordered time-sharing conditions can have legal consequences, potentially including enforcement proceedings or further restrictions. The consequences depend on the order and the facts.
What if you already have a custody order?
If an injunction conflicts with an existing parenting plan, do not assume one order simply overrides the other. Review the exact language and promptly seek legal advice about your duties and whether you need clarification or another court order. Continue to comply with the clear terms of each order while seeking guidance.
A court filing may be needed to resolve the conflict. Knowing how domestic violence cases interact with family law matters may help you identify the issues to address. Florida’s time-sharing and parenting plan law may also apply to existing arrangements.
What should you do to protect your parental rights?
Keep copies of all court orders and document messages about time-sharing. Record scheduled visits, cancellations and relevant exchanges with the other parent. These records may help if a dispute arises later.
A Florida attorney familiar with family law and domestic violence proceedings can review the orders and explain your options. They can advise whether to seek clarification or a change to the current arrangements.
