Starting October 1, 2026, a person out on pretrial release for a violent crime in Florida commits a new crime if they willfully break certain release conditions, such as a no-contact order.
The change comes from HB 397, the Victim Safety in Pretrial Release Act, signed on June 16, 2026 (Chapter 2026-155, Laws of Florida).
What changed
| Topic | What HB 397 says |
|---|---|
| Who it applies to | People on pretrial release for specified violent crimes |
| The offense | Willfully violating certain release conditions, such as a no-contact order |
| Penalty | First-degree misdemeanor for a first violation; a second or later violation is a third-degree felony |
| Arrest | Police can arrest without a warrant when they have probable cause |
| After an arrest | The person stays in custody until their first appearance hearing |
| Law | Fla. Stat. 901.15 and 903.0472, as amended by HB 397 |
What it means for victims
The time between an arrest and a trial is often when victims feel least safe. HB 397 gives police a faster way to act when someone ignores a no-contact order. But an order is still a piece of paper.
- Keep a copy of the order with you, and give one to your workplace or your children’s school.
- Write down every contact: date, time, place and what happened. Save texts, calls and screenshots.
- Report violations right away. If you are in danger, call 911.
How Atack can help
Atack Protection Group provides spousal protection and divorce security across Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach. That includes escorts to court and work, coverage at home, and investigators who can help document violations.
Reduced rates are available for survivors of domestic violence. If cost is the reason you are hesitating, call us anyway.
Worried about someone ignoring a court order? Contact Atack Protection Group or call (954) 559-0486 for a free, confidential consultation.
Sources
This article is general information, not legal advice. Talk to a Florida attorney about your situation.