Clerks launch Hope Card Program to assist victims of domestic violence
Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers (FCCC) have implemented the Hope Card Program in Clerk of the Circuit Court offices statewide.
Created in coordination with the Florida Attorney General’s Office, this new program offers individuals who have been issued a final injunction for protection in Florida 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.
“With the launch of the Hope Card Program, clerks of court in Florida 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 FCCC President and Orange County Clerk 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.”
Russell expressed thanks to Stacy Butterfield, chair of the FCCC’s Hope Card Workgroup and Polk County clerk, “whose exceptional leadership and dedication were instrumental in this program’s implementation.”
“Implementing the Hope Card Program represents a significant enhancement to how we support and protect victims of violence in Florida,” said Attorney General Ashley Moody. “By providing a free, clear, and easily accessible verification tool, we are empowering individuals with the means to secure their safety and enforce their rights swiftly and effectively. This program not only simplifies the process but also strengthens our collective effort to ensure justice and security for those in need across our state.”
During the 2024 session, the Florida Legislature passed CS/CS/CS/SB 86 – Hope Cards for Persons Issued Orders of Protection, sponsored by Sen. Lauren Book, D- Plantation, and Rep. Mike Gottlieb, D-Plantation, which required the clerks to develop and implement a Hope Card Program, in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General. 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.
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, obtaining a Hope Card is straightforward and free of charge. To receive a Hope Card, visit or contact your local clerk’s office in the county where your petition for protection was originally filed and request either a physical or electronic version.
For more on the Hope Card Program, visit www.FLClerks.com/HopeCardProgram or contact your local clerk’s office.
