What Are the Three Most Common Types of Injunctions?

September 23, 2024

Before describing the types and uses of injunctions in Florida, it is essential to understand the basics of an injunction. An Injunction (often referred to as a restraining order) is a powerful legal tool used to prevent harm, preserve the status quo, or compel a party to act or refrain from acting in a certain way.


Injunctions play a crucial role in a wide range of legal disputes, from protecting the business interest of a company (such as breach of an agreement, intellectual property, or client data being compromised) to preventing domestic violence. This article explains the different types of injunctions and how they are used. Individuals and businesses involved in legal conflicts can call the Florida injunction attorneys at (305) 444-0030 to learn how Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. can put the injunction laws to work for you.

Our experienced lawyers provide expert guidance on the complexities of injunctions. Over the past thirty years, we have defended and prosecuted countless injunctions, and we now provide this comprehensive guide on injunctions, their purposes, and the associated legal implications.

What is an Injunction?

An injunction is a court order that requires a person or entity to either do or refrain from a specific action. In Florida, the most common type of injunction is an injunction for protection, also known as a restraining order. This injunction restricts a person who committed violence against another person from having contact with that person. Injunctions are also frequently sought in the commercial or business sector. An example would be an injunction mandating commercial enterprise perform a specific act or to halt a certain activity. In the business world, injunctions are typically used in conjunction with a civil lawsuit where monetary damages alone are insufficient to remedy the harm caused. These injunction examples are primarily used in civil court, but an injunction can also be sought in a criminal matter.


Depending on the issues and parties involved, an injunction can be prosecuted in either Florida State court or United States federal court. The lawyers at Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. have vast experience handling numerous types of injunctions.

Injunctions can be temporary or permanent, depending on the nature of the case and the relief sought. Temporary injunctions are primarily used to impose and maintain a specific situation while a legal case is ongoing, while permanent injunctions provide long-term relief after the case has been resolved.

The Three Most Common Types of Injunctions

Preliminary Injunctions

• Definition and Purpose: A preliminary injunction is a temporary court order issued at the outset of a lawsuit that prevents a party from taking a specific action until the case can be decided. The primary purpose of a preliminary injunction is to preserve the status quo and prevent irreparable harm that could occur if the action were allowed to proceed.


• Legal Standards: To obtain a preliminary injunction, the requesting party must demonstrate:
  
  
  1. The likelihood of success on the merits of the case.
  
  
  2. That irreparable harm is likely to occur if the injunction is not granted.
  
  
  3. The balance of harms weighs in favor of the injunction being issued.
  
  
  4. That the injunction is in the public interest.
  
  
• Examples: A business seeking injunctive relief for damages relating to an offense against the company or a breach of an agreement by another party. Preliminary injunctions are commonly used in intellectual property disputes, where one party seeks to prevent another from using a trademark or patent while the case is being litigated. They are also used in cases involving non-compete agreements, where an employer seeks to prevent a former employee from working for a competitor.

Permanent Injunctions

• Definition and Purpose: A permanent injunction is a court order issued as a final judgment in a case, requiring a party to do or refrain from doing something permanently. Permanent injunctions provide long-term relief after the court has made a final determination on the merits of the case.


• Legal Standards: To obtain a permanent injunction, the requesting party must prove:
  
  
  1. Actual success on the merits of the case.
  
  
  2. That irreparable harm will occur without the injunction.
  
  
  3. That monetary damages are inadequate to remedy the harm.
  
  
  4. That the injunction is equitable and in the public interest.
  
  
• Examples: Permanent injunctions are often issued in cases involving ongoing nuisances, such as a factory emitting harmful pollutants, or in cases of trademark infringement, where a company is permanently prohibited from using a trademark that belongs to another business. Another example is breach of the stockholders or operating agreements; breaches of fiduciary duty; negligence and unjust enrichment due to tortious conduct.

Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs)

• Definition and Purpose: A Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is an emergency court order issued to prevent immediate and irreparable harm. TROs are typically issued without notice to the opposing party and are designed to provide short-term relief until a more formal hearing can be held. The primary purpose of a TRO is to maintain the status quo and prevent immediate harm.


• Legal Standards: To obtain a TRO, the requesting party must demonstrate:
  
  
  1. Immediate and irreparable harm will occur without the order.
  
  
  2. The urgency of the situation weighs against notifying the opposing party and providing an opportunity to present a defense to the allegations.
  
  
  3. A likelihood of success on the merits of the case.
  
  
• Examples: TROs are commonly used in cases involving domestic violence, where a victim seeks immediate protection from an abuser. They are also used in cases involving the imminent destruction of property, such as a developer seeking to halt the demolition of a historic building.

Legal Implications of Injunctions

Injunctions are powerful legal remedies that can have significant consequences for the parties involved. Violating an injunction can result in severe penalties, including contempt of court charges, fines, and even imprisonment. Therefore, it is essential to understand the legal obligations imposed by an injunction and fully comply with the court's order.

Those seeking an injunction should seek counsel from an experienced attorney who can effectively present the case to the court and demonstrate the need for injunctive relief. Those subject to an injunction, legal representation is crucial to understanding the order and exploring options for challenging or modifying the injunction.

How Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. Can Help

Navigating the legal complexities of injunctions requires skilled and knowledgeable legal representation. At Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A., our attorneys have extensive experience handling injunction cases across a wide range of legal issues. Whether seeking an injunction to protect your rights or defending against one, our team is here to provide the strategic guidance and strong advocacy you need. Our legal team is available and at your disposal every day of the week. Call (305) 444-0030 for a consultation or submit an inquiry at www.dmtlaw.com.

Tailored Legal Strategies

Every case involving an injunction is unique, and our attorneys take the time to understand the specific facts and circumstances of your case. We develop tailored legal strategies designed to achieve your goals, whether that involves obtaining an injunction, defending against one, or seeking a modification of an existing order.

Expert Advocacy

Injunction cases often require swift and decisive action. Our attorneys are skilled advocates who can effectively present your case in court, whether you are seeking a TRO, a preliminary injunction, or a permanent injunction. We understand the high stakes involved and are committed to securing the best possible outcome for you.

Comprehensive Legal Support

At Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A., we provide comprehensive legal support throughout the entire process, from the initial filing of a request for an injunction to the final resolution of your case. We keep you informed every step of the way and work closely with you to ensure that your rights and interests are protected.

Contact Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A.

If you are involved in a legal dispute that may require an injunction, it's essential to seek experienced legal representation as soon as possible. The attorneys at Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. are here to help you navigate the complexities of injunction law and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact Us Today for Expert Legal Assistance

Don't face the challenges of an injunction case alone. Contact Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. at (305) 444-0030 or visit www.dmtlaw.com to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled attorneys. We will review your case, discuss your legal options, and work with you to develop a strategy that meets your needs.

With Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. by your side, you can face your legal challenges with confidence. Let us provide the expert legal representation and support you need to protect your rights and secure a successful outcome in your injunction case.