St. Johns County Domestic Violence Lawyer

Common Types of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence can take various forms, and it is essential to recognize the different types to ensure your safety and the safety of your loved ones. Some common types of domestic violence include:

• Physical abuse: Any physical harm or injury inflicted on a family or household member, such as hitting, punching, slapping, or choking.
• Emotional abuse: Behavior that causes fear, anxiety, intimidation, degradation, or control, including verbal insults, threats, constant criticism, or isolation.
• Sexual abuse: Forcing or coercing a family or household member to engage in unwanted sexual activity without consent.
• Financial abuse: Controlling or withholding finances, restricting access to resources, or sabotaging financial stability.
• Stalking: Engaging in unwanted and repeated surveillance, monitoring, or harassing behavior, either in person or through digital means.

Domestic Violence Penalties

Domestic violence offenses carry severe penalties in Florida. The penalties depend on the specific circumstances of the case, the severity of the offense, and the defendant's criminal history. Penalties can include:

Misdemeanor Charges

• First-degree misdemeanor
  • Up to one year in jail or probation
  • Fines up to $1,000
  • Mandatory completion of a batterers' intervention program
  • Community service
  • A no-contact order

Felony Charges

• Third-degree felony
  • Up to five years in prison or probation
  • Fines up to $5,000
  • Mandatory completion of a batterers' intervention program
  • Community service
  • A no-contact order
• Second-degree felony
  • Up to 15 years in prison or probation
  • Fines up to $10,000
  • Mandatory completion of a batterers' intervention program
  • Community service
  • A no-contact order.
• First-degree felony
  • Up to 30 years in prison or probation
  • Fines up to $10,000
  • Mandatory completion of a batterers' intervention program
  • Community service
  • A no-contact order

Additionally, individuals convicted of domestic violence may face long-term consequences, such as difficulty finding employment, damage to personal relationships, and a permanent criminal record.

What if I’m Falsely Accused?

Being falsely accused of domestic violence can be devastating and can have long-lasting consequences. If you believe you have been falsely accused, it is crucial to seek legal representation immediately. Our St Johns County domestic violence attorneys at First Coast Criminal Defense will meticulously review the evidence, conduct a thorough investigation, and vigorously defend your rights in court. We will work tirelessly to expose any inconsistencies, falsehoods, or ulterior motives behind the false accusation.

Defense Options for Domestic Violence Charges

If you are facing domestic violence charges, it is vital to have our domestic violence defense lawyers in St Johns County by your side. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we will explore every available defense strategy to protect your rights.

Some common defense options for domestic violence charges include:

• Self-defense: If you acted in self-defense or in defense of others, we can gather evidence and build a strong case to support this defense.
• Lack of evidence: We will thoroughly analyze the prosecution's evidence and challenge any weak or insufficient evidence against you.
• False allegations: We will investigate the credibility of the accuser and uncover any motives or inconsistencies that may suggest false allegations.
• Violations of constitutional rights: If your rights were violated during the arrest, search, or seizure, we will aggressively challenge the admissibility of evidence obtained unlawfully.
• Alibi or mistaken identity: If you can provide evidence that you were not present during the alleged incident or mistaken for another person, we will present a strong defense based on this information.