Trusted Fort Lauderdale, FL Domestic Violence Law Firm

Criminal charges for acts of domestic violence vary widely. These charges can be both misdemeanors and felonies. The penalties for these crimes can vary as well ranging from probation to serious jail time.

Despite being referred to as “domestic violence,” not all domestic violence crimes necessarily involve physical violence. Some examples of domestic violence crimes in Florida include:

• False imprisonment
• Kidnapping
• Assault
• Battery
• Stalking
• Sexual assault
• Sexual battery
• Any crime resulting in physical injury or death

If you are convicted of a domestic violence crime, the punishment is generally more severe than if you were convicted of the same crime without the domestic violence designation. To prove that a case qualifies as domestic violence, the prosecution must offer additional evidence that there is a domestic violence relationship. A skilled domestic violence crime lawyer will know how to defend you by pointing out holes in the prosecution’s case.

Relationships That Qualify For Domestic Violence In Florida

Not all acts of violence qualify as domestic violence. Florida law requires there to be a familial relationship of some sort between the accused and the alleged victim. For example, violence between co-workers or roommates would not qualify. To qualify as domestic violence, the relationship must be one of the following:

• Spouses
• Ex-spouses
• People related by blood or marriage
• People currently or formerly living together as family (not just roommates)
• People who share a child in common (whether or not they were ever married or lived together)

People who are dating but haven’t lived together and don’t share a child are not included in the domestic violence laws for criminal purposes. However, Florida law does allow those who have been dating for at least six months to petition for a restraining order in civil court.

While it may seem clear cut, showing a domestic violence relationship can sometimes prove to be tricky. At Arcaro Law Group, we understand that every relationship is surrounded by unique circumstances. We also know that perceptions of the nature of the relationship can differ between parties. Our domestic violence lawyers are trained in this area and know how to best approach the issue.

Arcaro Law Group: We Fight For Our Clients In Fort Lauderdale, FL

Domestic violence cases are more complicated than most, but you don’t have to deal with it alone.

The outcome in a domestic violence case can affect the rest of your life. That’s why it’s important to work with an experienced domestic violence law firm that will protect your rights.

If you’re looking for a domestic violence lawyer in the Fort Lauderdale, FL area, the attorneys at Arcaro Law Group have the skill and tenacity needed to get you a favorable outcome. Our team of dedicated lawyers can answer any questions you have and guide you through the stages of your domestic violence case.

Call us today at (954) 546-7280 to get started with a personalized plan of action!