Dating Violence

Natalie Lopez, Fort Lauderdale attorney, at her office desk

Dating Violence

At Natalie Lopez, Attorney at Law, P.A., we are committed to supporting individuals who have experienced domestic violence and providing comprehensive legal representation in obtaining injunctions for protection.  We are also committed to wearing a second hat, which is that of defending against domestic violence injunctions as well.  In Florida, there are five types of injunctions available to address different forms of violence and harassment: Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Repeat Violence, Sexual Violence, and Stalking.

Legal consultation materials for dating violence in Fort Lauderdale

Dating Violence: Under Florida Statutes Section 784.046, Dating Violence injunctions are available to individuals who have been involved in a romantic or intimate relationship and have experienced violence or the threat of violence. This injunction safeguards victims from harm inflicted by a current or former dating partner.  Dating violence does not include violence in a casual acquaintanceship or violence between individuals who only have engaged in ordinary fraternization in a business or social context.
The existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on the consideration of all the following factors:
I. A dating relationship must have existed within the past six months;
Ii. The nature of the relationship must have been characterized by the expectation of affection or sexual involvement between the parties.
iii. The frequency and type of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship must have included that the persons have been involved over time and on a continuous basis during the course of the relationship.
Iv. Parties must have never lived together, as defined under domestic violence.

At Natalie Lopez, Attorney at Law, P.A., we understand the sensitive nature of domestic violence cases and the importance of taking swift legal action. We are dedicated to helping victims or those disputing the allegations navigate the legal process, obtain the appropriate injunction that suits their situation, and advocate for their rights.  If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, contact Natalie Lopez, Attorney at Law, P.A., today for a consultation. We are here to support you by providing legal expertise, and working towards a future free from domestic violence.

Dating Violence: What May Require Immediate Attention

A dating-violence injunction case can depend on the legal relationship definition, specific incidents, ongoing risk, communications, and the protection requested. Natalie Lopez, Esq. reviews the documents, deadlines, and facts that can affect the next legal decision.

Legal preparation should connect each requested term or defense to reliable facts, preserve full context, and keep the parties from using direct or indirect contact that could create danger or violate an order.

  • The dating relationship, timing, frequency, and nature of contact
  • The alleged violence, threats, stalking, or continuing danger
  • Messages, calls, social media, location records, photos, and witnesses
  • Temporary orders, service, hearing dates, and requested restrictions
  • Shared housing, school, work, property, children, and related criminal cases
Attorney reviewing evidence and preparation for dating violence in Fort Lauderdale
Organized evidence review for dating violence in Broward County.

Orders, Messages, and Other Records to Preserve

Keep complete, original records whenever possible. The following material may help counsel compare the allegation with dates, communications, and objective documentation:

  • The petition, temporary order, proof of service, and hearing notice
  • A complete relationship and incident chronology
  • Original digital communications and account information
  • Photos, video, police records, medical records, and witness names
  • Practical safety or compliance plans for shared locations

Related Injunction and Legal Resources

Read what to expect at a Broward County injunction hearing. Related services include:

Discuss Dating Violence With Natalie Lopez, Esq.

For a confidential consultation, contact the firm, call 954.888.8833, or email NLopez.Esq@gmail.com.