Florida Domestic Violence FAQ

Florida Domestic Violence FAQ

Domestic violence is one of the most serious criminal charges a defendant can face in Florida— and other related charges usually accompany them. If you were charged with domestic violence in Florida, you have legal rights and defenses available to you. The St. Petersburg criminal defense attorneys at Khonsari Law Group can discuss the facts and circumstances of your case and can formulate a good legal defense to your domestic violence charge.

What Is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is committed against a family or household member. A person can commit domestic violence against a spouse, ex-spouse, co-parent of that individual’s child, or a relative who is related to the accused by blood or marriage. Acts of violence that occur between individuals who currently live together in the same household—or who formerly cohabited together—are considered domestic violence.

What Are Additional Penalties Associated with Domestic Violence Crimes?

A conviction for Florida domestic violence includes a minimum of five days served in the county jail. A Florida court may also sentence a domestic violence offender to a period of incarceration in a Florida state prison. Alternatively, the court may impose a period of probation or community service upon conviction for domestic violence. In some cases, a prosecutor may charge the defendant with other criminal offenses in addition to domestic violence. For example, a prosecutor may also charge the defendant with assault and battery—either of which can constitute a felony or a misdemeanor, depending upon the circumstances. Incarceration for a misdemeanor conviction can range from 60 days to one year, while a felony conviction could result in as many as fifteen years.

Is Self-Defense Available in Domestic Violence Cases?

If you were charged with domestic violence, you may claim self-defense if:

• Your actions resulted from an imminent threat of harm
• Your fear of imminent harm was reasonable under the circumstances
• Your use of force was directly proportionate to the level of force that your assailant used against you

Do I Need a Lawyer?

If you were charged with domestic violence, you should not go it alone. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can help you formulate and develop good legal defenses to your domestic violence charge. A good legal defense can go a long way and may result in a complete dismissal of your charge, a charge reduction, or a reduced penalty upon conviction.

Contact a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense Lawyer Today for a Free Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation

Domestic violence charges are serious business, and the criminal defense lawyers at Khonsari Law Group can work toward obtaining a favorable result in your criminal case. To schedule a free consultation and case evaluation with a St. Petersburg, Florida criminal defense lawyer, please call us at (727) 269-5300 or contact us online.