.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.avif)
West Palm Beach Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
No matter the charges you’re facing, you deserve a strong legal defense. When you’ve been accused of domestic violence, we want you to know where to turn: South Florida Justice. Our experienced West Palm Beach domestic violence defense attorneys are here to fight for your rights.
.svg)
24/7 Free ConsultationsLegal troubles don't clock out at 5 p.m. and neither do we.
Always by Your SideWe stand with you, fight for you, and never back down.
West Palm Beach DefendersOur local roots run as deep as our legal knowledge.
Our Track Record of Success
Domestic Violence Charges We Handle
Florida domestic violence charges can result in serious jail time and a lifelong criminal record. Here are some of the types of cases we take on.
.svg)
Domestic BatteryAccusations of domestic battery often arise from emotional conflicts or misinterpreted situations. Even a slight touch during an argument can lead to serious charges in Florida. Our defense team will thoroughly investigate your case, challenge inconsistent evidence, and work to protect your freedom and reputation.
.svg)
Aggravated Domestic BatteryWhen domestic violence charges involve allegations of serious injury, weapons, or repeated incidents, the stakes become even higher. We understand how these serious accusations can impact your life and will provide a strategic defense to protect your rights and future.
.svg)
Domestic Violence InjunctionsProtective order violations can result in immediate arrest, even for accidental contact or being near prohibited locations. If you've been accused of violating a protective order, you need immediate legal representation. We will help you understand your obligations and create a defense strategy to fight these allegations and the potential consequences of a conviction.
If someone is seeking to obtain an injunction against you, we are experienced in successfully defending our clients against injunctions and preventing the court from issuing one in the first place. An injunction issued against you can carry penalties affecting your right to own firearms and who has custody of your children or home. It is important to consult with one of our defense attorneys if someone is seeking to obtain an injunction against you.
.svg)
Stalking and Aggravated StalkingThose accused of stalking, including cyberstalking, can face domestic violence charges that range from misdemeanors to felonies. Our seasoned aggravated stalking defense lawyers will help you challenge these allegations and protect your freedom of movement and reputation.
.svg)
Child Abuse in Domestic ContextsWe understand the sensitive nature of cases involving children and the serious impact these allegations can have on your relationships and custody rights. Our experienced attorneys will work to protect your parental rights while building a strong defense.
.svg)
False ImprisonmentSimply blocking a doorway during an argument can lead to false imprisonment charges. Our domestic violence attorneys excel at defending clients accused of false imprisonment, such as by demonstrating how an incident in question was merely a brief emotional encounter with no actual restraint involved.
- Your Rights Matter: We're Here to Defend Them
Being accused of domestic violence can be devastating. At South Florida Justice, we are your advocates every step of the way. Our defense attorneys in West Palm Beach are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you maintain your freedom and reputation.
Get in Touch with UsAvailable 24/7(561) 659-8337
Our Client Testimonials
Understanding Florida's Domestic Violence Laws
Florida Statute 741.28 explains that domestic violence encompasses various criminal offenses, including assault, battery, stalking, and false imprisonment, that are committed against family members or members of the same household.
Florida takes domestic violence accusations seriously, and so do we. Our domestic violence lawyers have extensive experience challenging these charges and protecting our clients' rights.
Potential Criminal Penalties in Domestic Violence Cases
These are some common offenses involved in domestic violence cases, along with the potential consequences of a conviction:
- Simple battery (F.S. 784.03): Up to 1 year in jail.
- Felony battery (F.S. 784.041): Up to 5 years in prison.
- Aggravated battery (F.S. 784.045): Up to 15 years in prison.
- Assault (F.S. 784.011): Up to 60 days in jail.
- Aggravated assault (F.S. 784.021): Up to 5 years in prison.
Along with imprisonment, convictions may result in fines and other penalties, including your rights to possess firearms.
Key Aspects of Florida's Domestic Violence Laws
West Palm Beach law enforcement officers who respond to domestic violence calls have the duty and authority to act according to state statutes. Here are some ways that Florida domestic violence laws could affect your case:
- Arrest policy: Police may make an arrest based on probable cause alone. Usually, if the police arrive at a domestic violence call, the police will remove someone from the home to diffuse the situation.
- Protective orders: The alleged victim may apply for an injunction for protection.
- Firearms restrictions: A conviction can result in losing your right to own firearms.
- Employment impact: Any criminal charge can affect your job or professional license.
Your lawyer can further explain how any of these rules apply to your arrest for domestic violence in West Palm Beach.
Your Rights When Accused of Domestic Violence in Florida
As with all crimes, you have constitutional rights after a domestic violence arrest. Here is what you should know:
- You have the right to remain silent.
- You have the right to legal representation.
- You have the right to challenge the evidence against you.
- You have the right to present your own evidence.
- You have the right to a fair trial.
- You have the right to appeal a conviction.
- You have the right to refuse warrantless searches of your property.
Unless you are restricted by court order, you also have the right to maintain contact with your children. Speak to your domestic violence defense lawyer if your spouse or partner is attempting to deny you access to your children.
Why Choose South Florida Justice for Your Domestic Violence Defense?
When you place your case in our hands, we’ll immediately take charge. Here’s how we can make a difference.
.svg)
Decades of ExperienceOur defense attorneys have successfully taken on hundreds of criminal cases like yours. We’ve achieved dismissals, reductions in charges, and favorable plea agreements for clients across South Florida.
.svg)
Deep Understanding of Florida LawWe search thoroughly for procedural errors or legal ambiguities that can be used in your defense. Our deep knowledge of Florida's domestic violence statutes and case law gives us an edge during negotiations and in the courtroom.
.svg)
Aggressive Defense StrategyWe challenge every aspect of the prosecution's case, from probable cause for arrest to the credibility of witnesses and evidence. Until your case is resolved, our attorneys will fight relentlessly to protect your rights and freedom.
.svg)
Personalized Defense StrategiesEvery case is unique. We analyze all angles — witness statements, any physical evidence, the relationship history, and the context of the allegations — to build a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
- 24/7 Availability
Domestic violence accusations often lead to immediate arrest. We're available around the clock to begin your defense. One call puts our entire legal team at your service.
Areas We Serve
From our West Palm Beach office, we defend clients accused of domestic violence throughout South Florida, including:
- Palm Beach Country
- Miami Country
- Broward Country
- St. Lucie Country
- Martin Country
- Okeechobee Country
Frequently Asked Questions
- I've been accused of domestic violence. What should I do right now?
Don't discuss the case with anyone, including the police or the alleged victim. Stay calm and contact us immediately at 561-659-8337. We'll explain your rights and begin building your defense strategy.
- What if the alleged victim wants to drop the charges?
The decision of whether or not to file charges lies solely with the prosecutor, not the alleged victim. We can use this factor when building your defense. The prosecutor will pursue domestic violence charges even if the alleged victim does not want them to. Even so, our lawyers at South Florida Justice have had much success in persuading the prosecutor to not file charges when the lawyer has been able to meet with the victim quickly following the client's arrest. Contact us to discuss your options.
- What is considered an aggravated battery in Florida, and how is it different from a simple battery?
Aggravated battery means intentionally causing great bodily harm, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement to another person. It also includes using a deadly weapon during the battery or battering someone who is pregnant. The charge carries up to 15 years in prison since it's a second-degree felony.
The key difference from a simple battery is the severity of injury or use of a weapon.
- How can I defend against false accusations?
We'll gather evidence, such as inconsistencies in the victim’s testimony, and build a strong defense strategy. Physical evidence, witness statements, and records of digital communications may also help your defense.
- Will I go to jail if I'm charged with domestic violence?
You might be arrested immediately if law enforcement officers respond to a potential domestic violence call. If that happens, you will likely be granted bail while you await trial. In the meantime, we’ll examine the evidence for your case and explore alternatives to further jail time, especially if this is your first criminal charge.