West Palm Beach Domestic Violence Attorneys

Defending the Accused in Palm Beach County and Beyond

Domestic violence is a serious criminal charge that carries with it the potential for jail time, probation, and other penalties. If you are facing domestic violence charges, you need an aggressive and experienced attorney on your side to fight for your rights.

At The Pakett Law Group, PA, we have the skills to effectively challenge the state's case against you and help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

To learn more about how we can help you, contact us today at (561) 286-8411.

What Is Domestic Violence in Florida?

In Florida, domestic violence is a serious crime that encompasses various forms of abusive behavior committed by one family or household member against another. It can result in jail time, expensive fines, and lengthy probation periods. Additionally, a domestic violence conviction can have lasting effects on the accused's reputation and future employment opportunities. If you are facing domestic violence charges, you need an attorney who understands the complex nature of these cases and can help you defend your rights.

Under Florida law, domestic violence is defined as any criminal offense resulting in physical injury or death of one family or household member by another family or household member. These offenses include:

• Physical violence—the intentional infliction of injury to another family member or household member
• Stalking—harassment that causes fear of imminent harm
• Sexual violence—rape, sexual assault, or any other type of unwanted sexual contact
• Aggravated battery—the intentional infliction of serious bodily injury on another family or household member

Penalties for Domestic Violence in Florida

Domestic Battery in Florida is categorized as a first-degree misdemeanor. The associated penalties typically encompass:

• A potential jail sentence of up to one year or probation lasting twelve months.
• A fine of up to $1,000.

Additional Mandatory Penalties:

Since this is a 'domestic' offense, those accused will incur additional mandatory penalties as prescribed by Chapter 741 of the Florida Statutes, including:

• Completion of a 26-week Batterer’s Intervention Program (BIP).
• A probation period of 12 months.
• A required five-day jail term if the defendant is adjudicated guilty, and there is bodily injury (refer to Section 741.283 of the Florida Statutes).
• Additional community service hours.
• Loss of significant civil liberties, including the right to concealed carry.
• Imposition of an injunction or 'no contact' order. For more details on this topic, please consult our web pages on injunction violations and no-contact orders.

Sealing or Expunging Domestic Charges:

Under Florida law, individuals who commit an act of domestic violence battery or any other domestic-related crime of violence, as defined in Section 741.28 of the Florida Statutes, are ineligible to have their records sealed or expunged, irrespective of whether adjudication is withheld.

In simpler terms, pleading to any domestic violence charge in Florida will result in a permanent criminal record for that offense, without exceptions.

Contact Our Firm for a Free Consultation

If you are facing domestic violence charges, you need an attorney who knows how to effectively fight the state's case against you. At The Pakett Law Group, PA, we have the experience and dedication to provide you with the representation you need. Our West Palm Beach domestic violence attorneys are committed to providing you with the best possible legal services and will work tirelessly on your behalf.

To schedule a free initial consultation with our attorneys, contact us at (561) 286-8411.