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HB 285

Injunctions for Protection in Cases of Repeat or Serious Violence

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michele Rayner

HB 285 would allow Florida courts to issue protective injunctions against repeat or serious violent offenders beyond traditional domestic/dating violence categories, but died in subcommittee.

Died in Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 285

Legislative bill overview

HB 285 would establish a new legal mechanism allowing courts to issue injunctions (protective orders) against individuals with a pattern of repeat violence or who have committed serious violent acts, even in cases where traditional domestic violence or stalking injunctions might not apply. The bill expands existing protection order statutes to cover a broader category of violent behavior.

Why is this important

Victims of violence by individuals without a qualifying relationship (such as acquaintances or strangers) or those experiencing escalating threats from repeat offenders currently have limited legal recourse under Florida's existing injunction laws, which are primarily structured around domestic violence, dating violence, sexual violence, or stalking. This bill would fill that gap by allowing courts to intervene preemptively to prevent serious harm.

Potential points of contention

  • Due process concerns: Opponents may argue that creating injunctions based on "repeat violence" could infringe on defendants' rights, particularly regarding what constitutes sufficient evidence of a pattern and how prior incidents are weighted
  • Scope definition: Defining "serious violence" and "repeat" behavior clearly enough to avoid overly broad application while still protecting victims is technically challenging and legally contentious
  • Judicial burden: Expanding injunction authority would require courts to manage additional cases and establish clearer evidentiary standards, raising questions about resources and consistency across districts

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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