Jacksonville Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

What Constitutes Domestic Violence?

Florida Statutes Section 741.28 defines domestic violence as violence committed against a family member or household member.

Qualifying acts of violence include:

• Assault or aggravated assault
• Battery or aggravated battery
• Sexual assault and/or battery
• Stalking or aggravated stalking
• Kidnapping
• False imprisonment
• Any other act of violence is resulting in a physical injury against another family or household member.

Florida law recognizes and protects members of the household as well as ex-spouses and roommates who may have once lived in the household but no longer reside there.

This includes the following individuals:

• Spouse or ex-spouse
• Children
• Co-parents
• Roommates
• Blood relatives

Penalties of Domestic Violence Convictions

A domestic violence victim can file a petition requesting an injunction for protection against domestic violence, which may order the alleged abuser to:

• Stop committing further abuse
• Leave the home
• Surrender their firearms
• Stay away from the victim's residence, school, and workplace
• Penalties for Domestic Violence Convictions

If the alleged abuser is a mother or father, he or she may be ordered to relinquish custody of his or her children and may be ordered to pay child support.

If convicted of domestic violence, the offender faces:

• Restraining order
• Incarceration
• Permanent criminal record
• Probation
• Completion of a batterers intervention program
• Community control

If you are charged with domestic violence as well as another offense on top of it, such as sexual assault, you may face strict penalties resulting in jail time. In general, penalties associated with domestic violence fall under two categories, misdemeanors and felonies. For most misdemeanor charges, you can expect to serve anywhere from 60 days to a year in prison. Felony charges can result in prison sentences up to 5 years. Due to the severity of this, it's critical to call our domestic violence defense lawyers in Jacksonville for trial-tested legal representation.

Possible Defenses for Your Case

When you retain our legal services, you will receive a plan of action that is tailored to your unique circumstances. However, there are common defense strategies that are utilized in cases involving domestic violence. These include:

• The use of self-defense: you may legally use reasonable force to protect yourself or others. The fine line revolves around "reasonable force". This is where you will need an attorney.
• Personal agenda: there may be multiple reasons as to why someone in your household is accusing you of violence. Their agenda may differ based on their desires. This is often seen when child custody is at stake.
• There is a lack of evidence: if the prosecution cannot provide sufficient evidence, your case leans heavily in your favor.
• Alibi: If we can demonstrate that you were not present during the time of allegations, your case will lean in your favor.

Facing Domestic Violence Charges in Jacksonville? Contact Our Team

Being accused of domestic violence in Jacksonville can feel overwhelming and life-altering. The legal process is complex, and the consequences can be severe—impacting your reputation, custody of your children, and even your ability to remain in your home. At Problems? Pick Porter!™, we understand the fear, stress, and uncertainty you may be experiencing.

Our team is dedicated to providing aggressive legal defense while offering compassionate support to help you through this difficult time. Every jurisdiction has unique laws and procedures, and Jacksonville is no exception. Our deep understanding of the local legal landscape allows us to craft a strategy tailored to your circumstances. We know what's at stake and can work tirelessly to defend your future.

At Problems? Pick Porter!™, our goal is to help you navigate your domestic violence case with confidence and clarity. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your situation and take the first step toward defending your rights and future.