ORLANDO – In support of recent Florida Legislation, the Orange County Clerk of Courts along with Court Clerks statewide have implemented a “Hope Card” Program to assist people affected by domestic violence and abuse. This new program offers individuals who have been issued a final injunction for protection the opportunity to apply for a free, standardized “Hope Card” that can be used to verify with law enforcement that they are covered by a protective court order.
Through the Hope Card Program, a person who has been issued a final injunction for protection against domestic violence, stalking, repeat violence, sexual violence, dating violence, or abuse or exploitation of an elderly person or disabled adult can apply for a free digital or wallet-sized Hope Card with the Clerk of Court where the petition was originally filed.
“With the launch of the Hope Card Program, we are able to provide further peace of mind for those in our communities who have secured final injunctions for protection against various forms of violence and abuse,” said Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore Russell. “This initiative ensures that individuals with protective court orders can easily and effectively communicate their status to law enforcement, ensuring immediate verification and enhanced safety.
During the 2024 session, the Florida Legislature passed CS/CS/CS/SB 86 – Hope Cards for Persons Issued Orders of Protection, sponsored by Senator Lauren Book and Representative Mike Gottlieb, which required Clerks of Court to develop and implement a Hope Card Program in Florida, in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General.
Hope Cards will identify the name and birth date of the person protected by the court order, the name and birth date of the respondent, and certain information relating to the protective order such as the type and date the order expires. Issued Hope Cards will be valid for two years or until the injunction expires, whichever occurs first, but may be renewed if the injunction remains in effect.
If you have a final injunction for protection, go to www.myorangeclerk.com for details on how to obtain a free Hope Card.
