Domestic Violence Attorneys in Ocala, Florida

Domestic Violence in Florida

When you’re facing domestic violence charges, life can seem like it’s spinning out of control. Being separated from your family and home is stressful, and the negative impact on your life is troubling. Let our criminal defense attorneys alleviate some of that pressure by handling the legalities so you can begin to get your life back on track.

Sexual abuse charges, physical assault against a family member, stalking, kidnapping, or other criminal offense that results in injury or death of a family or household member by another household or family member are all considered domestic violence charges under Florida law. A household or family member includes a current or former spouse, anyone related through blood or marriage, anyone currently or formerly residing in a domestic situation, and parents with a child in common.

Possible Consequences and Penalties

The possible consequences of a domestic violence or assault conviction can range from jail time to substantial fines. If the incident results in the victim’s death, life imprisonment is often the result. Causing serious bodily injury or using a weapon during the assault can result in up to 10-20 years in prison.

You can also lose possession of your firearms and be ordered to take anger management classes. When children are involved, you risk losing parenting privileges and even custody. And if you aren’t a citizen, you are in danger of being deported to your country of origin.

That’s why you need a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney by your side, guiding you through each step of the case. If you’re in Ocala, Florida, or the neighboring areas of Marion County, Belleview, Dunnellon, or Silver Springs, contact Defend Ocala. We’re ready to defend you against any domestic battery or assault charges you face.

Building a Strong Defense

Here at Defend Ocala, we know how to defend against a domestic violence charge. Our lawyers are experienced and have been in practice for over 20 years. We will use our knowledge of Florida’s domestic violence laws to help devise a defense strategy as we seek the best possible outcome for your case.

There are a few arguments that can be used to protect your rights, so it’s important to be honest with your attorney to assist with building the best possible defense. If you’re being falsely accused, be prepared to provide an alibi, evidence, or give the names of witnesses who can back your story.

Domestic arguments can turn and quickly get out of hand as you react in a way that you normally wouldn’t. If the incident happened, but the injury was an accident, and you did not intend to cause harm, a lack of intent defense can be used.

Self-defense is another argument frequently used to defend those accused of domestic violence. You’ll have to show your life was in danger or that you felt threatened. Be ready to prove the other party had a weapon or exhibited some other behavior that put your safety at risk. When using a self-defense strategy, it’s also crucial to show that you didn’t provoke the attack and that your response was reasonable under the circumstances.

We realize that these situations often devolve into he said, she said situations. But we’re here to get to the facts of the matter and do our best to use them in representing you. Don’t hesitate to contact us right away if you’ve been charged with domestic violence and reside in Ocala, Florida, or Marion County, Belleview, Dunnellon, and Silver Springs.