Domestic violence is often one of the most stress-inducing charges to experience due to the sensitive nature of a case. Not only is your future at stake, but the relationships you have with a significant other could also be in jeopardy. If you wish to preserve your future while maintaining your reputation, it may be necessary to consult with a Lake Park domestic violence Lawyer today.
If you have been accused of committing an act of violence against a loved one, be sure to retain one of our experienced criminal Attorneys at Leifert & Leifert. With a legal aid at your side, you may be able to combat the charges held against you in a swift and professional manner.
What is Domestic Violence?
According to Florida Statute § 741.28, domestic violence is an act of violence which could result in injury or death to a family member. A family member includes current and past spouses, blood relatives, relatives by marriage, current and past co-habitants, and people who have a child in common. Domestic violence could also encompass any of the following acts:
- Assault
- Battery
- Sexual assault and battery
- Stalking
- Kidnapping
- False imprisonment
What are the Penalties Associated with Domestic Violence?
A domestic violence charge may incur serious penalties if undealt with. For example, if the alleged victim claims battery, the Court may sentence you to Jail for up to a year as a Misdemeanor charge. If the Court finds you guilty of aggravated assault, the Court may sentence you to prison for up to five years.
The Court could also place you on probation and order you to attend anger management courses or treatment of alcohol abuse. The Court may also require you to complete community service instead of Jail time.
Even if the Court does not order Jail time, and you plead guilty or no contest, you would have a criminal record. However, the law does allow for some convictions to be expunged or sealed, but not all. For more information, contact a Lake Park domestic violence Lawyer today.
Restraining Orders
It is not uncommon for a domestic violence offender to be issued a restraining order. Depending on the Court’s ruling, you may have to move out of your home, avoid your partner or children, pay child support, alimony, and other household expenses, among other possible rulings. If you violate your Court order, the police may arrest and sentence you to Jail for up to one year for merely violating the Court injunction.
A frequent restriction is that you may not go within 500 feet of the alleged victim’s dwelling or come within 100 feet of their car. You may also be disallowed from contacting the alleged victim.
Get More Information from a Lake Park Domestic Violence Attorney
Due to the serious infractions a domestic violence infraction may carry, it may be worthwhile to investigate the legal options you have for avoiding a criminal conviction. To get started, reach out to a Lake Park domestic violence Lawyer. With the help of an Attorney at Leifert & Leifert, you may be able to carefully review the evidence relative to your case in order to help build a convincing defense. Schedule a consultation today.
