FLORIDA’S CLERKS HIGHLIGHT PROTECTIVE SERVICES DURING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

As communities across Florida recognize October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers (FCCC) is reminding Floridians of the important role Clerks of Court play in helping individuals and families seek protection from domestic violence and other threatening or harmful situations.

"As Clerks of Court, we have an important role in helping individuals who take the difficult and courageous step of coming to the courthouse to seek protection from domestic violence,” FCCC President and Marion County Clerk Gregory C. Harrell said. "We understand the serious and lasting effects these circumstances can have on individuals and families, and we are committed to making sure victims know that support is available. If you or someone you know is seeking an injunction for protection or restraining order, your local clerk’s office can provide information and assistance throughout the process."

Florida’s Clerks of Court receive and process applications for injunctions for protection involving domestic violence, dating violence, repeat violence, sexual violence and stalking. These applications do not have a filing fee, making sure cost is not a barrier for someone seeking protection. In 2025, Clerks statewide processed 75,218 applications for these protective orders. Clerks provide these services at courthouses and annex locations throughout Florida, with assistance available to individuals seeking information about the filing process.

Clerks also administer the statewide Hope Card Program, which launched in 2024 following legislation creating the program. The Hope Card gives individuals who have been issued a final injunction for protection in Florida the opportunity to obtain a free, standardized card that can help verify the existence of their protective court order to law enforcement.

More information about the Hope Card Program is available at www.FLClerks.com/HopeCardProgram or through a local Clerk of Court’s office.

The Clerks say individuals experiencing domestic violence or concerned about someone they know should consider the following steps:

• If you are in immediate danger, always call 9-1-1 for assistance from law enforcement.

• Contact your local Clerk’s office to start the process of filing for an injunction or restraining order, at no cost to the filer.

• Use the Florida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119 for support, advocacy and assistance finding shelter.

Visit www.flclerks.com/DVAM to locate your local Clerk of Court’s office to learn more about the support and services available.

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