October 15, 2021
Allegations of domestic violence are very serious and can have damning consequences. These days, allegations are treated with more urgency and aggression by law enforcement. This is particularly due to the increasing number of cases involving domestic abuse. On average, statistics show that around 20 people a minute experience such violence.
As such, this is a grievous charge to be accused of. People accused will need legal assistance. Though someone may not worry over unfounded claims, the possibility of a conviction is still high, and the penalties are severe.
What is Domestic Violence Battery?
Domestic violence battery is defined as intentional and actual infliction of bodily harm to another individual who is a current or former member of your household. In Florida, this means your spouse (present or ex), any blood relations, parents with a shared child, and people who currently or have lived with you as a cohabitating family.
It is considered in Florida law as a first-degree misdemeanor that incurs both fines and jail time.
What Are the Consequences Incurred From These Charges?
Should a prosecutor deem you guilty, you will have to serve a mandatory sentence of a minimum of five days if the victim has suffered bodily injury. This can also be extended up to an entirety of a year. You will also receive a fine of up to $1,000, depending on the damages. There will also be a 12-month probation period, a “no contact” injunction, and compulsory attendance and completion of the 6-month Batterer’s Intervention Program.
Additionally, you will also have to perform a set number of community service hours and lose concealed carry rights, and so on. After such a conviction, you would lose rights to child custody, have trouble with future employment, and be blocked from certain loans and claims.
If the conviction also comes with a sex offense, you will be registered on the sex offender registry.
What to Do With Charges
If facing charges, speed is essential when it comes to getting a criminal law attorney. They will need as much time as they can get to assess the accusation, build a defense, and create a successful strategy to protect you from a conviction and severe penalties.
At this point, your lawyer should take the lead, and you simply have to comply with their requirements to build up your case. For instance, your lawyer will likely require you to provide evidence that the accuser may create false claims.
This will all help your lawyer find the best strategy and cover all angles to make the defense. If there are any suspicious ulterior motives or a lack of evidence from the victim, this will all contribute to your case. As such, time will be of the essence in gathering all the necessary information.
Closing
If you or anyone you know has been accused of domestic violence battery, make sure to take these considerations into account. The most important step is to get reliable legal criminal law assistance immediately. This way, a defense can be built in a timely fashion.
Dorsey Law JAX has the top Jacksonville attorneys specializing in family law, criminal law, and personal injury. For any legal assistance in Florida, make sure to contact us now and get aggressive and expert representation.
