If you’ve been wrongly accused of domestic violence in Florida, you need an attorney you can trust to guide you through this difficult time. We can help you navigate your domestic violence case with confidence.
Clearwater, Florida
Clearwater
Domestic Violence Lawyers
Our Clearwater Domestic Violence Services
At Fletcher & Fletcher, we recognize the severe implications a domestic violence charge can have on your life, affecting everything from family relationships to your professional stability.
Our attorneys are dedicated to providing a strong defense, leveraging our deep legal experience to guide you through the complexities of your case with commitment and precision.
Florida law defines domestic violence as:
“any assault, aggravated assault, battery, aggravated battery, sexual assault, sexual battery, stalking, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal offense resulting in physical injury or death of one family or household member by another family or household member.” (Fla. Stat. § 741.28)
Family life is complicated, as are the relationships we have with the people we live with.
That’s why Florida law does not require the two parties in a domestic violence case to necessarily be related by blood or marriage. Instead “household members” can include:
- Spouses or former spouses;
- People related by blood or marriage;
- Anyone presently residing together as a family/have resided together in the past as if a family; or
- Parents of a child in common (married or not)
Penalties for Domestic Violence in Clearwater Florida
Understandably, Florida law takes domestic violence accusations very seriously.
If you’ve been charged with domestic violence in St. Petersburg, your first charge is considered a first degree misdemeanor. This charge comes with penalties that can include up to one year in jail or twelve months probation, as well as a fine of $1,000.
Florida law also requires additional mandatory penalties – known as “collateral consequences” – which include:
- 10 days in jail (if bodily injury was involved) (for a first offense)
- Completion of a Batterer’s Intervention Program
- 12 months of probation
- Community service hours
- Loss of concealed carry rights
Unfortunately, that’s not all. In addition to these legal penalties, people convicted of domestic violence may face difficulty with future employment and education, problems with their reputation, and strained relations with their family and loved ones.
Furthermore, a person convicted of domestic violence in Florida is ineligible to have their record sealed or expunged in the future.
That’s why it’s so vital to hire an experienced team of St. Petersburg domestic violence defense attorneys as soon as you hear of your accusation.
What Our Clearwater Clients Say
Our Clearwater Domestic Violence Case Process
STEP TWO:
We’ll talk about your case and let you know if we can help
STEP THREE:
If we’re a good fit: we’ll get to work immediately, building the strongest possible case for you
We’ve taken hundreds of cases to trial.
We go to bat for each and every one of our clients, and will fight for you just as we would want someone to fight for us.
Our Clearwater Domestic Violence Results
Domestic Violence Battery: All Charges Dismissed Before Trial
Our client was accused of domestic violence battery. Together, we were able to get all charges dismissed before the case went to trial.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as “family” under Florida domestic violence laws?
Under Florida law, “family” in domestic violence cases encompasses the following individuals:
- Spouses
- Former spouses
- Individuals related by blood or marriage
- Those currently or previously cohabitating as though they were a family
- Parents sharing a child, regardless of their marital status
What behaviors constitute domestic violence?
Domestic violence in Florida is defined as any act committed by one family or household member against another that could include assault, aggravated assault, battery, aggravated battery, sexual assault, sexual battery, stalking, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal offense leading to physical injury or death.
The statute categorizes these offenses into three primary types:
- Physical
- Emotional
- Psychological
Can men also be victims of domestic violence?
Yes, domestic violence can affect anyone, including men. The laws are designed to protect all victims, irrespective of gender, from their abusers.
Is domestic violence considered a criminal offense?
Yes, domestic violence is a criminal offense in Florida, typically treated as a misdemeanor with penalties that may include up to one year in jail. If you’re facing such charges, an attorney from Fletcher & Fletcher can provide crucial legal support and defense.
What does a 'history of domestic violence' entail?
A history of domestic violence refers to multiple documented incidents where law enforcement was called to a residence to address domestic disturbances.
Get Started on Your Clearwater Domestic Violence Case Today
Facing criminal charges, particularly those related to domestic violence is a serious matter that should not be taken lightly. Domestic violence charges in Florida are vigorously prosecuted, and a conviction can lead to severe penalties.
If you find yourself in this situation, it’s crucial to act decisively to protect your freedom. Don’t face these challenges alone—our team at Fletcher & Fletcher is here to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system with you and work diligently to secure the most favorable outcome for your case.
Contact us at 727 966-2749 today to arrange an initial consultation with our experienced domestic violence attorneys.
