Category Archives: Domestic Violence
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Domestic Violence Offenses
In Florida, the term ‘domestic violence’ is a category of crimes and not an actual offense. These cases often involve very high emotions and can spin out of control quickly if not handled properly from the beginning. In order for any criminal case to be classified as domestic violence, the victim must be a… Read More »
Diversion Programs Available in Domestic Violence Cases
Being charged with domestic violence is very stressful. You may be wondering if you will have to appear in court and if you are facing jail time. You may even wonder what happened to the relationship between you and your accuser. Fortunately, being accused of domestic violence, even formally, does not necessarily mean you… Read More »
Can You Claim Self-Defense in a Domestic Violence Case?
An argument that occurs between family members or members of the same household can quickly result in criminal charges, even when you are simply defending yourself. Whether you can argue self-defense in your domestic violence case depends on many important factors. You and your Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer must present strong evidence to… Read More »
Two Important Things to Know About Domestic Violence Charges in Fort Lauderdale
Being charged with domestic violence can have many serious consequences. Other than jail time and high fines if you are convicted, you may also have difficulty obtaining employment and there is a very real possibility of losing child custody, even if you are not convicted. It is critical that you obtain legal representation as… Read More »
How to Fight a Restraining Order in Fort Lauderdale
In Florida, victims of domestic violence may be able to obtain an injunction, more commonly referred to as a restraining order, to protect them from their abuser. Restraining orders include specific terms that you must comply with if one is obtained against you. This includes avoiding contact with the alleged victim, even if this… Read More »
What Constitutes Domestic Violence in Florida?
If you or someone you love has been arrested for or charged with domestic violence, you are likely feeling stressed and overwhelmed. However, facing domestic violence charges does not necessarily mean it will end in a conviction. Florida’s domestic violence laws address different types of violence occurring between members of the same family or… Read More »
The Legal Grounds for Obtaining a Domestic Violence Injunction in Florida
Domestic violence injunctions, often called restraining orders in other states, can have a significant impact on the life of both the petitioner and the respondent. An injunction is a civil court order requiring an individual to stay away from the person seeking protection. It can prevent contact in any form, including phone calls, text… Read More »
Can a Victim Choose To Drop Domestic Violence Charges in Florida?
A common question we get in Domestic Violence cases is whether the victim can drop the charges once they have been filed. Many people assume that the victim should have control of the case and can, therefore, drop the charges if they see fit. However, the reality is once the domestic violence charges are… Read More »
Can the State Appeal a Sentence in a Domestic Violence Case?
Florida prosecutors go to significant lengths to prosecute individuals accused of domestic violence and related crimes. And while the state cannot appeal a jury verdict of “not guilty” acquitting a defendant of such charges, in some cases it can appeal a trial judge’s decision to impose a sentence that falls below the minimum required… Read More »
How Domestic Violence Charges in Florida Can Affect Your Employment
Allegations of domestic violence are often enough to tar someone as an abuser in the eyes of the press and the public. This often includes the accused person’s employer. Many private and public employers in Fort Lauderdale are reluctant to hire or retain someone who has been convicted of–or even charged with–crimes involving domestic… Read More »