Pensacola  Domestic Violence Attorney

An Experienced Domestic Violence Attorney When You Need One

You have been charged with domestic violence. Perhaps you are out of your house. You may be unable to see your children because of a restraining order. It is very possible that you are already experiencing the impact of the charge. Who knows what the future will hold?

Handling More Than Meets The Eye

You may have been charged for something you didn’t do. The incident may have happened during a lovers’ quarrel. Perhaps it resulted from a divorce-related discussion involving your children. In any case, it is likely there was more to the situation than meets the eye.

Facing Domestic Violence Charges? Contact us today at (850) 495-7977 for a strong defense and personalized legal support.

Experienced Fighters For You

A domestic violence charge calls for an attorney who will fight aggressively for you. At the law firm of Michael J. Griffith, P.A., we devote much of our practice to helping people charged with domestic violence and other criminal defense matters. We have served the people of Pensacola, Florida, and the entire state for more than 40 years. Our primary goal is to mount a strong and effective defense of your rights.

Understanding Domestic Violence Charges in Florida

In Florida, domestic violence charges can stem from a variety of situations where one person harms or threatens another in an intimate or familial relationship. Domestic violence is not just about physical violence—it can also include:

• Physical Abuse: Hitting, slapping, pushing, or other forms of bodily harm.
• Emotional Abuse: Threatening, humiliating, or controlling behaviors meant to damage a person's self-esteem or sense of safety.
• Psychological Abuse: Gaslighting, manipulating, or coercing someone into actions against their will.

Domestic violence can happen in marriages, dating relationships, family dynamics, or even in situations where the parties share children. The key factor is the relationship between the individuals involved.

Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges

If you’ve been charged with domestic violence, there are several possible defenses that may apply to your case. These can include:

• Self-Defense: You may have acted in defense of yourself or others. If you reasonably believed you were in danger, you could argue that your actions were necessary to protect yourself.
• False Accusations: Sometimes, charges are brought based on mistaken identity or false claims. This could happen during a heated argument, especially in cases involving separation or divorce.
• Lack of Intent: In some situations, you may not have intended to cause harm. If the action was unintentional, such as a minor physical altercation, it may not meet the legal definition of domestic violence.
• Lack of Evidence: If the prosecution doesn't have enough evidence to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt, the charges could be dropped or reduced.

A strong legal defense strategy is crucial in ensuring your rights are protected.

The Role of Restraining Orders

In many domestic violence cases, one or both parties may seek a restraining order (also called an injunction for protection). There are several types:

• Injunction for Protection Against Domestic Violence: Typically requested after an incident of abuse. It can prevent the accused from contacting the victim or coming near them.
• Injunction for Protection Against Repeat Violence: Used in cases where the parties involved are not in a domestic relationship but there has been repeated violence.

The process of obtaining a restraining order in Florida includes filing a petition with the court, which may result in an immediate temporary order until a full hearing can be scheduled. If granted, these orders can impact both parties, often with the accused being ordered to leave the home, have no contact with the victim, and surrender any firearms.

Restraining orders can affect your daily life, employment, and relationship with your children, so it’s important to understand their potential consequences.

What Are the Possible Penalties if Convicted of Domestic Violence?

In Florida, a domestic violence conviction can result in a range of serious penalties. For misdemeanor charges, individuals may face up to a year in jail, mandatory community service, fines, and required attendance in intervention or anger management programs. However, if the charge involves aggravating factors, such as the use of a weapon or causing significant bodily harm, the offense could be charged as a felony. Felony convictions can lead to extended prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.