When facing domestic violence charges, having the right defense attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we specialize in providing strong and strategic defense representation for individuals accused of domestic violence in St. Johns County. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of our clients. With our compassionate approach and unwavering commitment, we will vigorously defend your case, explore all possible defense options, and strive for the best possible outcome. If you are facing domestic violence charges, trust First Coast Criminal Defense to provide you with the skilled legal representation you need during this challenging time.
Contact our St Johns County domestic violence attorneys by calling (904) 474-3115 or filling out our online form.
What Qualifies as Domestic Violence in Florida?
According to Florida Statutes Section 741.28, domestic violence is defined 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 a family or household member by another family or household member.
The statute also specifies that family or household members include spouses, former spouses, individuals related by blood or marriage, individuals who have lived together as a family, and individuals who have a child in common, regardless of whether they have been married or cohabitated.
Common Types of Domestic Violence
Domestic violence can take various forms, and it is essential to recognize the different types to ensure your safety and the safety of your loved ones. Some common types of domestic violence include:
Physical abuse: Any physical harm or injury inflicted on a family or household member, such as hitting, punching, slapping, or choking.
Emotional abuse: Behavior that causes fear, anxiety, intimidation, degradation, or control, including verbal insults, threats, constant criticism, or isolation.
Sexual abuse: Forcing or coercing a family or household member to engage in unwanted sexual activity without consent.
Financial abuse: Controlling or withholding finances, restricting access to resources, or sabotaging financial stability.
Stalking: Engaging in unwanted and repeated surveillance, monitoring, or harassing behavior, either in person or through digital means.
Domestic Violence Penalties
Domestic violence offenses carry severe penalties in Florida. The penalties depend on the specific circumstances of the case, the severity of the offense, and the defendant's criminal history. Penalties can include:
Misdemeanor Charges
First-degree misdemeanor
Up to one year in jail or probation
Fines up to $1,000
Mandatory completion of a batterers' intervention program
Community service
A no-contact order
Felony Charges
Third-degree felony
Up to five years in prison or probation
Fines up to $5,000
Mandatory completion of a batterers' intervention program
Community service
A no-contact order
Second-degree felony
Up to 15 years in prison or probation
Fines up to $10,000
Mandatory completion of a batterers' intervention program
Community service
A no-contact order.
First-degree felony
Up to 30 years in prison or probation
Fines up to $10,000
Mandatory completion of a batterers' intervention program
Community service
A no-contact order
Additionally, individuals convicted of domestic violence may face long-term consequences, such as difficulty finding employment, damage to personal relationships, and a permanent criminal record.
What if I’m Falsely Accused?
Being falsely accused of domestic violence can be devastating and can have long-lasting consequences. If you believe you have been falsely accused, it is crucial to seek legal representation immediately. Our St Johns County domestic violence attorneys at First Coast Criminal Defense will meticulously review the evidence, conduct a thorough investigation, and vigorously defend your rights in court. We will work tirelessly to expose any inconsistencies, falsehoods, or ulterior motives behind the false accusation.
Defense Options for Domestic Violence Charges
If you are facing domestic violence charges, it is vital to have our domestic violence defense lawyers in St Johns County by your side. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we will explore every available defense strategy to protect your rights.
Some common defense options for domestic violence charges include:
Self-defense: If you acted in self-defense or in defense of others, we can gather evidence and build a strong case to support this defense.
Lack of evidence: We will thoroughly analyze the prosecution's evidence and challenge any weak or insufficient evidence against you.
False allegations: We will investigate the credibility of the accuser and uncover any motives or inconsistencies that may suggest false allegations.
Violations of constitutional rights: If your rights were violated during the arrest, search, or seizure, we will aggressively challenge the admissibility of evidence obtained unlawfully.
Alibi or mistaken identity: If you can provide evidence that you were not present during the alleged incident or mistaken for another person, we will present a strong defense based on this information.
