Tampa Domestic Violence Attorney
In recent years, awareness of domestic violence has increased among the general public. Law enforcement agencies and state prosecutors, though, have always been aggressive in the pursuit of these charges. Contrary to what many people think, it is not alleged victims who determine whether to lay charges or not. Law enforcement has full discretion on how to proceed and they almost always arrest the alleged abuser.
The moments and days following an arrest are always frightening and what happens next can have life-long consequences. If you are facing charges, our Tampa domestic violence attorney can prepare a defense that can help you beat them.
What is Domestic Violence in Tampa?
There are certain crimes that are categorized as domestic violence under state law. These offenses are as follows:
- Aggravated battery
- Domestic battery
- Domestic assault
- Sexual battery
- Kidnapping
- Aggravated assault
- Elder abuse
- False imprisonment
- Stalking
- Aggravated stalking
- Violations of a no-contact order, such as a restraining order
- Rape
In addition to the above crimes, any offense that causes physical injury or death of a family member, or member of the household, is classified as domestic violence. It is a common misconception that in order for charges to apply, the misconduct needs to happen on a regular basis or the behavior must be severe. Even one instance of shoving, pushing, or grabbing can result in domestic violence charges being laid.
A member of the household is defined under state law as anyone who currently lives together as a family, or who have lived as a family in the past. Parents who have children together are also considered household members, regardless of whether they live together or if they were ever married.
Penalties Associated with a Domestic Violence Conviction
Like other criminal offenses, a domestic violence conviction can result in jail time, high fines, and the possibility of enrolling in a treatment facility. However, unlike other crimes, a conviction for domestic violence can also have many other consequences.
If you have a child and there is a custody dispute, a conviction for domestic violence will have a very serious impact on your case. Even an arrest can affect the amount of time you spend with your child. If you have a permit to carry a concealed weapon, that could also be revoked. Also unlike many other expenses, an arrest or conviction for domestic violence cannot be sealed or expunged, which means you will have a criminal history for the rest of your life.
Our Domestic Violence Attorney in Tampa Can Protect Your Rights
If you have been charged with domestic violence, you need strong legal representation to ensure your rights are protected. At HD Law Partners, our Tampa domestic violence attorney can advise you of your rights and prepare the strong defense you need to beat your charges. Call or text us now at 813-964-7878 or connect with us online to schedule a free review of your case with our seasoned attorney and to learn more about how we can help.
