Domestic Violence

It is important to distinguish what makes domestic violence distinct from other violent crimes such as battery, as domestic violence is usually treated with more severe consequences. Florida law defines domestic violence as any assault, aggravated assault, battery, aggravated battery, sexual assault, sexual battery, stalking, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any other criminal offense that results in physical injury or death of one family or household member by another.

Domestic Abuse, however, may encompass emotional abuse, psychological abuse, and financial abuse. Domestic abuse does not necessarily rise to the level of a crime.

In most cases, domestic violence is classified as a misdemeanor. However, charges can be amplified if the offender has a prior criminal record, has committed past domestic violence offenses, caused extensive bodily damage to the victim, or abused a minor (person below the legal age). Once a person is convicted of a domestic violence crime in South Florida, he/she can be punished with:

Due to the severity of the legal consequences involved, it is always to your benefit to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney after you have been charged with domestic violence.

By hiring a criminal defense attorney, who has successfully handled numerous other domestic violence cases, you will safeguard your best interests. You will also be informed of any possible defenses involved in your case that could help you fight your domestic violence charges in court. Additionally, you will ensure that your rights and future well-being are protected.

False Accusations of domestic violence can be devastating and unfortunately are not uncommon. They are often employed in divorce proceedings and custodial battles, ostensibly to gain the upper hand in negotiations. In Florida, you could be arrested or charged with a crime if your spouse or former partner simply claims that you touched them against their will.

A domestic violence accusation can be overwhelming. Even if you know you did nothing wrong, you might already be facing a law enforcement investigation, criminal charges, and increasingly hostile family and friends. We recommend that you avoid all contact with the plaintiff or alleged victim, even if you believe talking to them will help solve the issue. We also recommend you secure your financial and social media accounts and gather evidence about your innocence. Many false accusations are poorly planned. By hiring an experienced attorney like attorney Michael Jones, you can rise above the injustice you are facing and secure your freedom.