Dating violence in Florida is defined as violence between individuals who have or have had a continuing and significant relationship of a romantic or intimate nature (Fla. Stat. § 784.046(1)(d)).
A dating relationship is determined based on three criteria:
The relationship existed within the past six months.
The nature of the relationship was characterized by the expectation of affection or sexual involvement between the parties.
The frequency and type of interaction must include that the persons have been involved over time and on a continuous basis during the course of the relationship.
Protection Against Dating Violence
Florida law allows individuals who are victims of dating violence to seek an injunction for protection against dating violence, similar to those available for domestic violence victims (Fla. Stat. § 784.046(2)).
Legal Remedies
A court may issue an injunction to prevent the respondent from committing any acts of dating violence, to order the respondent to participate in treatment or counseling, and to provide the petitioner with temporary custody of any shared children, among other reliefs.