What Happens if You Violate a No Contact Order in Florida?
No contact orders in Florida are Court orders that prevent a defendant in a criminal case from contacting a specific person or persons, usually an alleged victim or witness involved in their case. If a no contact order has been issued against you, it is critical that you comply with its terms. Beyond potentially resulting in the revocation of your bond, violating these legal orders is a criminal offense in and of itself, and you will face serious consequences or additional charges. If you are accused of this crime, it is critical that you contact our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyers.
What are No Contact Orders in Florida?
No contact orders are typically entered against criminal defendants as a condition of their pretrial release. These orders prevent the defendant from contacting another person in any way. This could include by phone, text, or e-mail, by posting or commenting on social media, by contacting them through a third-party, as well as contacting them in person. If you have had a no contact order issued against you, asking someone else to contact the alleged victim or witness is also prohibited.
No contact orders can be issued during any stage of a criminal case, including before you are charged. Typically, these legal orders are issued in cases involving victim crimes like battery, stalking, or burglary. No contact orders are meant to protect alleged victims and witnesses and to ensure their safety.
It is extremely important to know the terms of any no contact order issued against you so that you avoid any inadvertent violations. Even making a mistake, such as driving by the alleged victim’s house which is on your way to work, could be a violation of a no contact order.
Penalties for Violating a No Contact Order in Florida
Violating a no contact order can result in serious penalties.
If you are found in violation of a no contact order, your bond may be revoked and you may be placed back in jail, or even charged with a criminal offense. Violating a no contact order is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor in most cases. If convicted, you will face up to one year in jail and a maximum $1,000 fine. If you have previous convictions of violating a no contact order, the charge may be classified as a third-degree felony. If you are convicted, you may face up to five years in prison and a maximum $5,000 fine.
Our Criminal Defense Lawyers in Fort Lauderdale Can Defend Against a Violation
If you have been accused of violating a no contact order, it is important to speak to our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyers at Haber Blank as soon as possible. Our skilled legal team can prepare the defense you need to prove you did not violate the order and to minimize possible outcomes as much as possible. Call us today at 954-767-0300 or chat with us online to schedule a consultation.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0741/Sections/0741.31.html
