In 2019, Florida reported 105,298 domestic violence crimes that resulted in 66,069 arrests.
Whether you’re the victim of domestic violence or facing allegations of domestic violence, the consequences—both legal and personal—can have a lasting impact on all involved parties.
We’ll delve deeper into the consequences of domestic violence below.
But first, if you require immediate assistance, please call the Florida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119 or TDD (TTY) 1-800-621-4202.
If you’re seeking legal guidance on domestic violence, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Fusco Law Group’s Family Law Team at (904) 567-3113.
Frequently Asked Questions about Domestic Violence Consequences in Florida
What is Considered Domestic Violence in Florida?
In Florida, domestic violence is defined as any assault, aggravated assault, battery, aggravated battery, sexual assault, sexual battery, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal offense resulting in physical injury or death of one family or household member by another family or household member.
What Consequences do Victims of Domestic Violence Face in Florida?
Domestic violence can have a profound impact on the victim’s life both legally and personally.
Victims with children may face child custody and visitation legal issues if the situation is deemed a danger to the child.
Victims are often relocated for protection and may require legal assistance to obtain or enforce a restraining order.
Domestic violence can result in severe emotional and physical trauma for victims. A judge may recommend that the victim attend counseling or rehabilitation sessions.
What are the Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction in Florida?
People convicted of domestic violence in Florida may face many consequences that impact their lives in the short term and long term.
The court may immediately place a no-contact order that would prevent the person from contacting the victim and their children. Long term impacts could include loss of custodial rights.
If convicted of a first-degree misdemeanor, they could face a jail sentence up to one year and a fine up to $1,000. A felony conviction for domestic battery can lead to a 5-year jail time and up to a $5,000 fine.
A domestic violence conviction may also include the following consequences:
- Completion of a 26 week Batter’s Intervention Program
- 12 months or probation
- Community service hours
- Loss of the right to carry a firearm
- Loss of civil rights including voting
- Loss of driver’s license
A felony charge for domestic violence battery may lead to significant life-impacting consequences. This could include the ability to rent a home. In many cases, the conviction may impact the ability to find employment.
Get the Help You Need
As mentioned above, if you require immediate assistance, please call the Florida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119 or TDD (TTY) 1-800-621-4202.
Whether you’re a victim of domestic violence or accused, it’s important not to make rash legal decisions. Getting the right legal guidance can help you protect your rights in a domestic violence case.
That’s a good reason to have an experienced attorney by your side. Fusco Law Group is experienced in Criminal and Family Law. If you have legal questions regarding domestic violence, contact the Fusco Law Group: (904) 567-3113 for a free consultation.