Consequences and Penalties for Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is taken very seriously in the state of Florida. No matter what you call it; domestic abuse, partner abuse, physical assault, spousal battery, spousal rape, stalking, or physical intimidation, domestic violence is a crime.  Charges for first time and repeat offenders range from a first class misdemeanor to a felony.  If you are found guilty you may be facing any of the following:

• Mandatory jail time
• No contact with the victim/spouse or your children
• Loss of access to your residence
• Fines and court costs
• Anger management classes / Mandatory counseling
• Community service
• Batterer's intervention program
• Multiple criminal charges
• Permanent criminal record
• Loss of right to own a fire arm
• Inability to practice certain professions

First time offenders may be eligible for a pre-trail diversion program in which your charges could be dropped.  If you can establish that you acted in self-defense, the court will likely reduce or dismiss the charges.

Repeat offenders and those who violate an Order of Protection face even harsher penalties.  Ignorance of the law cannot be used as a defense. Consulting an attorney to decipher the details of the Order of Protection against you is crucial. 

When an arrest is made, you need an experience Florida domestic violence attorney at your side.  Our attorneys will help you navigate the system, protect your rights, and investigate false reporting of domestic violence. 

At Joffe and Joffe, PA, our attorneys have handled dozens of domestic violence cases. The vast majority of those cases did NOT result in a guilty verdict. Call 954-723-0007 today to speak to an experienced domestic violence lawyer.