Mount Dora Domestic Violence Lawyer

In Florida, the Mount Dora Police Department will charge you with a violent criminal act, such as battery, if you cause an injury to a member of your household or a person you are dating. The state considers domestic or dating violence a pattern of abuse perpetrated by one person to maintain control over a spouse, intimate partner, or member of the household.

The abuse is directed at current or ex-spouses, those who are living with or have lived with the accused as a family, a blood relative or a relative by marriage, and a shared child’s co-parent. Dating violence involves the same acts against someone in a romantic or intimate relationship, currently or in the past six months. Navigating the criminal justice system when emotions are raw is not something to be undertaken on your own – which is why you should find a criminal defense lawyer to represent you. Let a Mount Dora domestic violence lawyer uphold your right to be represented in court.

Underlying Crimes to Domestic Violence

Domestic violence touches people of all socio-economic stations, both male and female, and partners who are the same or the opposite sex. It generally involves the overt crimes of:

  • Assault or battery, including sexual assault
  • Stalking
  • Kidnapping
  • False imprisonment

Additionally, coercive tactics can include emotional and economic abuse, isolating the partner, harming a beloved pet, or threats against children of the relationship. If you are charged with any of these acts, you are entitled to competent representation. Our domestic violence attorneys in Mount Dora know that familial crimes are often explained differently by the parties involved. We will work to find the most advantageous solutions and best defenses for you.

Sentences in Domestic Violence Cases

When people are convicted of domestic violence and bodily harm is an element, under Florida Statutes § 741.283, minimum sentences are imposed. These include 10 days in jail for a first offense, 15 days for a second offense, and 20 days for a subsequent offense. If the violent act was in the presence of a child 15 or younger, the time behind bars is increased to 15, 20, and 30 days respectively. Remember, these are the minimums, and a judge can levy other charges or probation. If probation is allowed, the defendant under Fla. Stat. § 741.281 must attend batterer intervention classes.

If You are Charged with Assault or Aggravated Assault

Domestic violence can be charged as an assault or aggravated assault. An assault is charged when one person is in fear of immediate violence, and it is a second-degree misdemeanor. The defendant must be able to carry out the threatened violence to be convicted and sentenced to up to a year in jail.

Aggravated assault charges are third-degree felonies, which means you can spend up to five years in jail. The elevated charge includes brandishing a weapon or the intent to commit a felony, such as sexual assault. Our Mount Dora attorneys know that domestic violence charges are serious and getting your life back on track is our goal.

When the Charge is Battery, Felony Battery, or Aggravated Battery

Battery is an assault that is completed by causing bodily harm, such as slapping, punching, stabbing, clubbing, or any offensive and unwanted touching. The charge is a first-degree misdemeanor, but with prior convictions for battery, escalates to a third-degree felony, which is also charged when there is great bodily harm. Aggravated battery is a second-degree felony and is charged when an intentional act causes great bodily harm, if the person harmed is pregnant, or a deadly weapon is used in the commission. Florida describes additional domestic violence charges for strangulation, stalking, and violating an injunction. For a detailed account of what your charges mean for your future, contact a Mount Dora domestic violence attorney.

Defending Domestic Violence Charges

A knowledgeable Mount Dora lawyer can determine what to challenge in a complaint, especially if the actions do not meet Florida law’s definition of domestic violence, including whether the parties are living together as family. If the accuser is an aggressor, the accused may also be able to claim self-defense. There are documented cases when the accuser fabricates domestic violence to get the accused into trouble with the law. In criminal cases, the prosecutor must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and if the accused has an alibi, or witnesses to testify on their behalf, a lawyer could use the information to defend a client.

Learn How a Mount Dora Domestic Violence Attorney Advocates for You

Domestic violence happens when tempers ignite or there is a power imbalance in an unstable relationship. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their home, and when fear replaces love, dynamics may change with law enforcement’s involvement.

We understand that humans are not perfect, and most people deserve a second chance if they are willing. Our Mount Dora domestic violence lawyers are available to speak with you about your situation. If you have been arrested for family or dating violence, the first call you should make is to us.

Get In Touch With Us Today

    By checking, you agree to receive text messages from the Umansky Law Firm team regarding your subscriptions or other industry-related information. You can opt-out anytime. Message & data rates may apply. View Mobile Terms. View Privacy Policy.

    Mount Dora Domestic Violence Lawyer
    27468
    18.97.14.81