Category Archives: Criminal Defense
When You Truly Acted In Self-Defense
It is fairly common for domestic violence defendants in Florida to argue that they acted in self-defense even if this is not truly the case. If you are charged with domestic violence, but you truly did act in self-defense, you may be under the impression that you will not be believed in court. If… Read More »
The Legal Consequences of A Domestic Violence Conviction
Florida’s definition of domestic violence is fairly broad, intending to ensure that as many of the cases which might fall under that umbrella as possible are tried as such. Domestic violence is not a single crime in Florida; rather, the presence of domestic violence is used as a sentencing enhancement in the event of… Read More »
Domestic Violence Charges May Impact Your Immigration Status
Domestic violence is seen as a serious crime in Florida, and a conviction will result in serious penalties. However, for people who are not citizens of the United States, it is crucial to understand that a conviction for this type of crime can have consequences even beyond jail time – namely, that you will… Read More »
Can Teenagers Face Domestic Violence Charges?
At least in theory, anyone is capable of committing domestic violence. However, the average person tends to think only of adults when discussing these topics. In reality, teenagers can be respondents in domestic violence cases as well, though the cases are usually prosecuted in a different manner. If you or your child have been… Read More »
Does Stalking Count As Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is an ‘umbrella’ of sorts in Florida, encompassing any crime that causes physical injury or death to a “family or household member” of the alleged perpetrator. Stalking is a crime that is normally charged as a first-degree misdemeanor, but aggravating factors can bump it up to a third-degree felony, and can place… Read More »
Florida’s LGBTQ+ Community & Domestic Violence
As of this writing, Florida is a difficult place to be a member of the LGBTQ+ community. In early April 2023, the advocacy group Equality Florida took the step of issuing a travel warning for LGBTQ+ people, citing the current administration’s legislative direction and a general lack of protection for members of those communities…. Read More »
What Is – And Is Not – Domestic Violence In Florida
The definition of domestic violence in Florida is necessarily wide-ranging, as several types of criminal offenses may fall under that proverbial umbrella. The legislature intended to extend that umbrella as far as possible, so that more victims could seek justice – but sometimes, domestic violence may not actually be the right charge for someone… Read More »
The “Reasonable Person” Standard in Florida Domestic Violence Cases
Domestic violence is seen as a serious crime in Florida, but not every allegation will lead to a protection order and charges. The average person may think that the victim’s testimony is enough to obtain a domestic violence injunction against their alleged abuser, but Florida (and most other jurisdictions) observe what is known as… Read More »
Riverview Domestic Violence Dispute Ends Peacefully
In May 2023, police were able to free a woman being held against her will in a ‘domestic dispute’ happening in a Riverview apartment. Hostage negotiators were called in, and were successful in getting the suspect to release the woman unharmed. He later surrendered to police, and while there is no word as of… Read More »
Restraining Order Violations Do More Harm Than Good
If you are facing charges of domestic violence, you may be served with a Florida domestic violence injunction (DVI). Designed to protect your alleged victim, a DVI imposes certain restrictions on you, depending on the specifics of your case. It may seem like a good idea to ignore this document, especially if you believe… Read More »