If your child has been sexually abused the most important safety plan is one that prevents the abuser(s) from having any contact with your child. It should also prevent further abuse from all others. You can download a Family Safety Plan Activity form to help you think through situations and collect other information designed to prevent your child from being a victim of sexual abuse.
You play a key role in protecting your child, but the court can also help by granting you an injunction for protection. The injunction will permanently bar the abuser from having any contact with your child, including letters, texts, phone calls or third party contact. If the abuser violates the injunction, he or will have committed a crime and the case will be referred to criminal court.
To be eligible for a sexual assault injunction, you must report the abuse to law enforcement. Injunctions can be filed with your local Clerk of Court for no charge. Once you have completed the injunction paperwork it will be reviewed by a judge. With the judge’s approval you will immediately be issued a temporary injunction. The injunction will include a date to return to court for a full injunction hearing before the judge. Injunctions are heard in civil (not criminal) court. The defendant (accused abuser) will be served with the injunction paperwork and has the right to be at the injunction hearing.
During the hearing the judge will hear evidence from both parties. You are permitted to bring witnesses and may also retain a lawyer to represent you, although that not required. After hearing the evidence the judge can order a permanent injunction. For more information on injunctions read Injunction for Protection.
Other useful sources for prevention of sexual assault are:
FLORIDA : Florida Council Against Sexual Violence
Crisis Hotline : 1.888.956.RAPE (7273)
UNITED STATES : RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network)
Crisis Hotline : 1.800.656.HOPE (4673)
Lauren’s Kids is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, tax I.D. number 26-1252588. Read our Privacy Policy. View A Guide to Hope and Healing references. Visit LaurensKids.org to learn more.
©2021, LAUREN’S KIDS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.