All allegations of causing harm to another can lead to severe consequences. This includes incidents where a Prosecutor believes violence has occurred and those where the allegations involve the mere threat of harm. However, as harsh as these cases can be, punishment can only result from a conviction in Court.
Sadly, this fact is not true in cases alleging incidents of roommate violence. The supposed victim’s status as a person living with the defendant means you may face consequences quickly after an arrest. A Court can create a restraining order before a trial that can impact all parts of your life. Consulting with a Delray Beach roommate violence lawyer today allows them to explain the issues in your case and develop a defense that protects your rights as quickly as possible. An attorney can help you avoid a restraining order and other domestic violence penalties.
Examples of Criminal Charges that May Result in Accusations of Roommate Violence
Roommate violence is not a specific criminal offense in this State. Instead, Courts group this activity as an example of domestic violence. Domestic violence describes an incident allegedly impacting a supposed victim with a close relationship with the defendant.
As a result, various criminal charges may be at the core of incidents that may result in roommate violence accusations. These typically include allegations of causing harm to another or threatening to do so. Common examples include:
- Assaults
- Harassment or stalking
- Child endangerment
- Sex crimes
- Kidnapping
A roommate violence Attorney in Delray Beach is prepared to explore the facts that led to an arrest and present a defense in Court against these criminal accusations. This can reduce the severity of punishment or even force a Court to issue an acquittal.
How an Accusation of Roommate Violence may Differ from a Common Criminal Case
Criminal Courts hearing cases that allege violence against another will generally act in the same way regardless of the identity of the supposed victim. However, incidents of domestic violence may trigger additional hearings and potential punishments.
This occurs when an alleged criminal act falls under the State’s definition of family violence. According to Florida Statute § 741.28, it is the identity of a supposed victim that classifies an incident as domestic violence. Importantly, a person being roommates with the supposed victim fits this definition.
This classification can have a significant impact on a defendant’s rights and freedoms before a case goes to trial. A victim of supposed roommate violence may petition the Court to create a protective order that requires the defendant to cease all contact. This can have disastrous consequences when it forces a defendant to move out of a shared living space. As a result, a roommate violence Lawyer in Delray Beach can work to dispute the need for these orders at every opportunity.
Speak with a Delray Beach Roommate Violence Attorney Now to Protect Your Rights
Accusations of roommate violence are serious. Even if the allegation at the core of the arrest is a mere Misdemeanor, the outcome of the case can impact on your career, schooling, or family life. The simple accusation of wrongdoing can justify a Court’s creation of a restraining order that limits your ability to live in a home. In addition, a conviction for an offense can bring enhanced penalties compared to similar accusations against a stranger.
Contacting a Delray Beach roommate violence Lawyer can be your first step toward avoiding these outcomes. From day one, Leifert & Leifert is prepared to explain your rights, contest any potential restraining orders, and fight back against the accusations at the center of your case. Speak with one of our attorneys now to learn more.
