Domestic Violence - Options

Stay with the Abuser

• Make a safety plan
• Call the police if you're being abused
• Attend a support group, call (813) 621-7233

File Criminal Charge

• Call the police
• Sends a message to the abuser that abuse will no longer be tolerated
• Police may arrest on scene
• After arrest, abuser will be jailed until a bond hearing is held, usually within 8-36 hours
• Release is contingent on abuser's good behavior

File Injunction for Protection

• May prohibit further violent contact, order no contact or remove abuser from the home.
• File with the Domestic Violence Court Clerk at the main courthouse in Hillsborough County or the courthouse in Plant City
• If the order is violated, you must contact the court
• If the abuser is removed, change all the door locks
• Make a personal safety plan

Leave the Abuser

Go to The Spring, Hillsborough County's Domestic Violence Center. The 24-hour emergency hotline is (813) 247-7233