In Florida, criminal defendants undergo life-altering circumstances when they are convicted of domestic violence. The convictions deem them risks in some professions, which makes it difficult to obtain employment. Criminal Defense Lawyers in Naples offer a defense for the charges and helps defendants avoid a conviction.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is the threat of bodily harm or the act of physical assault. The laws define the offenses as any assault and battery against another household member. However, the offenses involve other forms of abuse as well.
Signs of abuse are indicators of domestic violence. The aggressor threatens to withhold financial support, controls the victim’s actions, and utilizes coercion to prevent the victim from leaving. Forced sexual acts, isolation from family, and harming the victim’s children or pets are also signs of abuse or domestic violence.
What Penalties are Imposed?
The penalties for a first offense range up to one year in jail and a fine of $2,500. The severity of the victim’s injuries increases the potential penalties. The victim is required to file a police report for domestic violence before they receive any assistance from the court.
How Do Protection Orders Work?
The victim petitions the court for a protection order after the aggressor is arrested. The orders prevent any contact between the victim and the attacker. The order gives the victim the right to contact the police if their attacker visits them or contacts them in any way. Any violation of the order leads to further criminal charges.
The Effects on a Divorce Case
The family court wouldn’t deny visitation or child custody unless the child was a victim of domestic violence. The victim of domestic violence has the right to start divorce proceedings after their attacker is arrested. The protection order is extended when necessary.
In Florida, criminal defendants accused of domestic violence face restrictions as defined in a protection order. The court order requires the defendant to follow all provisions or additional charges are applied. A conviction affects divorce cases and often leads to supervised visitation. Defendants who need help from Criminal Defense Lawyers in Naples can contact the Law Office Of James W. Chandler P.A. right now.
