Pinellas Park Domestic Battery Lawyer
Domestic violence is a serious problem in Florida, and the state will bring criminal charges even when evidence is weak. At The Reep Law Firm, we have represented men and women accused of domestic battery. This is a misdemeanor offense for a first-time offender, but you should immediately respond by hiring an attorney. Even misdemeanor convictions can create hassles for years after you have repaid your debt to society, so take these allegations seriously. Our Pinellas Park domestic battery lawyer can review the evidence and help you understand your obligations under any restraining order. Call us today.
Why Domestic Battery is a Serious Allegation
Domestic battery is any striking or unconsented touching by a family member or someone residing in your household. Most commonly, domestic violence consists of hitting, punching, and kicking between intimate partners. A husband who pummels his wife is an example, but either gender can commit domestic battery, and men and women can be victims.
Domestic battery is often a first-degree misdemeanor. If convicted, you can face a year in jail and a maximum $1,000 fine. Some defendants will be required to serve mandatory time in jail.
Other penalties in Florida include:
- Community service
- Probation
- Loss of gun rights
- Participation in a Batterer’s Intervention Program for 26 weeks
Many domestic violence charges stem from violating a domestic violence restraining order (also called an injunction). This is an order from a judge which prohibited contact between you and the alleged victim (so-called “no contact” order). The judge might have awarded temporary custody and child support and even awarded exclusive use and possession of a joint home.
Unfortunately, judges can issue a temporary restraining order based solely on the testimony of an alleged victim. This type of temporary order is legally effective. Any violation will qualify as a crime. You might not have had any idea you were subject to a restraining order when the police arrested you.
Domestic violence accusations often arise in the context of divorce or custody fights. Some parents try to get a leg up in custody proceedings by accusing their partner of domestic battery. They can often get a restraining order on the strength of their uncorroborated testimony.
You do not have to take these accusations lying down. In addition to defending you from domestic battery charges, we can also seek to dismiss a restraining order. Let us review all the facts.
Call Our Pinellas Park Domestic Battery Lawyers for Assistance
Domestic battery charges are serious. Any accusation can destroy a person’s reputation and result in a punitive restraining order. Defendants should immediately contact The Reep Law Firm for legal assistance. Our Pinellas Park domestic battery lawyers can review any restraining order and police report to judge the strength of the state’s evidence against you. We also want to hear your story.
The good news is that you can fight most domestic battery charges. There might be insufficient evidence that you committed the offense, or the alleged victim was lying. You should avoid immediately pleading guilty, because the repercussions are so serious. Instead, hire your own criminal defense attorney to help you.
