Last updated January 2026
If youâve been arrested or accused of domestic violence in Florida, chances are the court has issued a no-contact orderâeven before youâve had a chance to defend yourself.
So what exactly does a no-contact order mean, how long does it last, and what happens if you accidentally violate it?
đ What Is a No-Contact Order?
Under Florida Statute § 741.29(6), courts are required to impose no-contact conditions in most domestic violence pretrial release scenarios unless the judge specifically rules otherwise. A no-contact order is a court directive that prohibits any form of communication between the accused and the alleged victim while the case is pending. No-contact orders are often confused with civil injunctions. For a full explanation of how domestic violence injunctions work in Florida, see our Domestic Violence Injunctions in Florida guide.
This usually includes:
No in-person visits
No phone calls, texts, or emails
No social media messages
No third-party communication (like through a friend or family member)
â ïž Violating a no-contact orderâeven unintentionallyâcan lead to immediate arrest and additional charges.
âïž When Is a No-Contact Order Issued?
In Florida, no-contact orders are commonly issued:
At the first appearance hearing after an arrest
As part of a pretrial release condition
During the duration of a protective injunction or stay-away order
You do not have to be convicted for a no-contact order to take effect. Itâs a precautionary measure the court imposes in domestic violence cases to prevent further conflict.
Â
đ Can You Still Live Together?
No. If a no-contact order is in place, you must leave the shared residence immediatelyâeven if your name is on the lease or deed.
Some judges may allow a one-time visit with law enforcement escort to collect belongingsâbut nothing more.
Other than this one-time visit, however, you will need a modification to the no contact order in order to continue to live together.
đ Can the Alleged Victim Drop the No-Contact Order?
Not directly. Only the judge can modify or remove the no-contact orderâeven if the alleged victim wants contact.
The alleged victim can:
Submit a written request to lift or modify the order
Attend a hearing and testify that they do not fear the accused
Provide a statement of non-opposition
But the judge will consider safety, past history, and facts of the case before making a decision.
đ What Happens If You Violate the Order?
Violation of a no-contact order can result in:
Immediate arrest
Revocation of bond
New criminal charges (violation of pretrial release conditions)
Ineligibility for future bond
Harsher sentencing if convicted
đ” Even a brief text like âCan we talk?â can trigger a violation charge.
đĄïž Fort Lauderdale Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
At Michael White, P.A., we help clients navigate the difficult conditions that come with domestic violence chargesâincluding modifying or defending against no-contact orders.
We file motions to modify orders, advocate at hearings, and make sure you avoid missteps that could cost you your freedom.
đ More Answers About No-Contact Orders in Florida Domestic Violence Cases
â Can I contact the alleged victim if they want to talk?
No. Only the court can modify the order. Any communicationâeven if mutualâviolates the order.
â How long does a no-contact order last?
Usually until the case is resolved, unless the judge modifies or removes it.
â Can I go home if my name is on the lease?
No. You cannot return home while a no-contact order is in place, regardless of property rights.
â What if the alleged victim contacts me?
Do not respond. Contact your lawyer immediately. You can still be arrested for replyingâeven if you didnât initiate the contact.
â Can a lawyer help remove a no-contact order?
Yes. Your lawyer can file a motion and schedule a hearing to ask the court to modify or lift the orderâoften with support from the alleged victim.