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Background
Marla* is a waitress in her 20’s trying to move ahead in life. She had a relationship with David* for about a year, but after noticing increasingly abusive behaviors from him, she decided to end the relationship. From there, David started stalking Marla and threatening to send private photos and information to her family members and employer. Marla was scared and unsure what she could do to protect herself.
Legal Assistance
Marla reached out to Coast to Coast Legal Aid of South Florida (CCLA) looking for legal assistance on a Petition for Injunction for Protection Against Stalking. An injunction is a court order requiring a person to do or cease doing a specific action.
CCLA assisted Marla in court and advised her on the next steps to take. After hearing Marla’s testimony, the Court entered a Final Judgment of Injunction to remain in effect for two years. Failure to comply with an injunction may result in the Respondent (David) being held in contempt of court, which in turn may result in either criminal or civil liability.
The Respondent filed a Motion for Rehearing, which means, he asked the Court of Appeal to hear – or consider – the case again and correct a legal mistake in the court’s opinion. The court denied this Motion. The Final Judgment expired and within a year of expiration, the Respondent began harassing Marla again, sending multiple threatening and harassing text messages and emails.
Marla applied again for CCLA services to represent her with this case in seeking another injunction. This time, the CCLA attorney requested for the Injunction to remain in place until further order from the court. At a final hearing, Marla testified to the continued stalking that was occurring. The Respondent testified on his behalf.
The judge was able to hear firsthand the continued abuse and stalking that Marla endured…
Why it Matters
Ultimately after the testimony and evidence were presented, the court entered a final judgment of Injunction to remain in effect until further order of the court. This has allowed Marla to have protection that keeps her safe from abuse or threats of harm from her abuser. She is no longer receiving threats and has been able to move on with her life.
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*Names, images, and details have been changed to protect our client’s privacy
Safety Exit