In support of Florida Legislation, Clerks of Court statewide have implemented a “Hope Card” Program to assist people affected by domestic violence and abuse.  The program offers individuals who have been issued a final injunction for protection the opportunity to apply for a free wallet sized “Hope Card” that can be used to verify with law enforcement that they are covered by a protective court order.

A Hope Card is available to 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 in the county where the petition was originally filed. Here at the Sarasota County Clerk of Courts a “Hope Card” can be requested in person at either the Historic Courthouse in downtown Sarasota or the South County Courthouse in Venice. 

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.