What Is Considered Domestic Abuse in Florida

What Is Considered Domestic Abuse in Florida

Domestic violence allegations are taken very seriously, and they should be. However, sometimes a partner may falsely accuse an individual of domestic violence. If you or a loved one is facing domestic violence charges, it is important to fully understand what domestic violence is and how you can defend your rights.

Types of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence comes in various forms, not limited to the following:

• Physical contact such as slapping, hair pulling, strangling, hitting, kicking, grabbing, shaking, burning or other forms of injury that is intentional
• Name calling and emotional abuse
• Controlling finances
• Withholding medical help
• Stalking
• Terroristic threats
• Harassment
• Criminal mischief
• Demanding sexual activities
• Hiding assistive devices

What are the Consequences?

Domestic violence charges can have serious consequences depending on the specific case. Ultimately, even if the charges may seem minor, a domestic abuse conviction can have serious and lasting consequences. If convicted of a domestic violence charge, he or she will not be able to seal or expunge their record at a later date. This could seriously impede someone when seeking employment, renting a home and more. Additionally, there are often strict probation requirements and potential jail or prison time.

Potential Domestic Violence Defenses

While domestic violence is a prominent issue within the United States, innocent individuals can be falsely accused of domestic violence. Luckily, with the assistance of a skilled legal team, there are various defenses for domestic violence:

• Self-defense: In some domestic violence cases, self-defense may be a viable defense. If a defendant can prove that they reasonably perceived an imminent threat, had an appropriate response and was not the initial aggressor, self-defense is a possible defense.

• False allegations: Often times, an individual will make false allegations of abuse against a partner out of spite or have other motivations. In order to prove there were false allegations, defense attorneys usually look for true motivations or inconsistencies within the accuser’s story.

• Insufficient proof: Showing that there is lack of proof in the accuser’s arguments is one of the strongest defenses a defendant can have.

When to Hire an Attorney

If you are facing domestic abuse charges, call a domestic violence attorney right away. Domestic abuse charges carry heavy consequences that could affect your life for years to come. The legal team at the Khonsari Law Group can help guide you through this trying time and can help defend your rights. Do not risk your freedom—contact the Khonsari Law Group today or click here to schedule a free consultation.