Domestic Violence Offenses in South Florida: Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Attorney Explains Charges & Resources

Domestic Violence Offenses in South Florida: Fort Lauderdale

Criminal Defense Attorney Explains Charges & Resources

Domestic violence charges are unfortunately common in South Florida, with more than 105,000 domestic violence incidents were reported to Florida Law Enforcement statewide in 2019. There were also more than 66,000 Domestic Violence-related arrests in Florida in 2019, and more than 73,000 calls to the domestic violence hotline by individuals seeking emergency services, information, and safety planning assistance & more.

Family disputes are personal, emotional, and sometimes volatile.

Often, mistakes are made and misunderstandings are intensified in the heat of an argument. When emotions overcome self-control, individuals may find themselves facing domestic violence charges and the serious consequences that follow in the State of Florida. It is important to understand what these charges mean so you can effectively fight them to protect your future and your family.

The Different Types of Domestic Violence Criminal Offenses in South Florida

Domestic violence charges encompasses a wide range of activities and behaviors that involve family or household members. It can occur among spouses, husbands, wives, boyfriends, girlfriends, children, partners, grandparents, in-laws and many more. Domestic Violence charges can affect all types of people, regardless of age, race, socioeconomic status, and education.

There are five criminal allegations that are most common in Florida domestic violence cases:

• Battery
• Assault
• Stalking
• Sexual assault
• Kidnapping

Additionally, it is possible for any of these charges to be intensified through an aggravating factor, making the consequences much more severe. Aggravating factors can include repeated offenses, lack of remorse, amount of harm to victims, actions in front of a child and much more. For example, if the domestic incident takes place in front of a child you could face a form of a child endangerment crime in addition to the domestic violence allegation.

It’s important to note that the more stressful the season, and the more family members are together – such as during the winter holiday season – Domestic violence cases can rise. 

Consequences for Domestic Violence Offenses in South Florida Can Be Severe

Every South Florida Domestic Violence case is unique, and the consequences can vary depending on the specific factors of your case. Some of the more common legal consequences can include:

• Probation
• Jail time
• Mandatory intervention program
• Community service
• Restraining order
• Deportation (for non-citizens)

Protecting Your Rights After a Domestic Violence Arrest in South Florida

Domestic violence convictions can have a significant negative impact on your life and the lives of those you love. In Florida, it is not possible to seal or expunge a domestic violence offense, so it will remain on your record forever. 

In addition to the legal ramifications, there are serious personal and financial consequences, as well. It is vital to address the charge right away and present an aggressive defense that will minimize negative repercussions as much as possible.

Some common defenses for a domestic violence charge can include:

• Self-defense
• Lack of injuries
• Defense of others
• Vindictive victim

Every Florida Domestic Violence case is unique, and the most effective legal approach for your case will be determined by the specific facts of your situation.

At Rossen Law Firm, Adam Rossen and his legal team understand that good people sometimes find themselves facing these difficult situations, and they are here to provide compassionate and tenacious representation.

Even if you aren’t sure of your legal rights after a domestic violence arrest or how you can protect them, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. You’ll need a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side to make sure that your rights and future are protected from your domestic violence allegations.

Fill out the contact form on this page or call our office to schedule a free strategy session and hear more about your possible legal options when it comes to a Domestic Violence allegation in South Florida.

Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation with our domestic violence defense attorneys:

Fort Lauderdale: (754) 206-6200

Sunrise: (754) 999-2499

Boca Raton: (561) 880-8181

Looking for more Domestic Violence resources? Check out the Local Domestic Violence Resources in South Florida that are available whether you’ve been a victim of domestic violence or are facing domestic violence allegations.