Our Broward County Criminal Defense Lawyer Explains Domestic Violence Penalties
Domestic violence charges are among the most serious criminal allegations you can face in Broward County. A conviction can result in significant legal penalties and long-lasting personal consequences. If you find yourself arrested for domestic violence, it's important to understand the potential ramifications. An experienced Broward County criminal defense attorney can explain the charges against you, possible sentences, and your legal options.
In this article, we'll provide an overview of the penalties for domestic violence convictions in Broward County, including jail time, fines, probation, and more. We'll also discuss some of the collateral consequences a conviction can have on your life. Armed with this information, you'll be better prepared to work with your lawyer to achieve the best possible resolution for your case.
Jail or Prison Time for Domestic Violence Convictions
One of the most severe potential consequences of a domestic violence conviction is incarceration. The length of your sentence depends on factors like:
- The severity of the offense. Simple domestic battery is generally charged as a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in county jail. More serious crimes, such as aggravated battery or assault with a deadly weapon, may be charged as felonies. A third-degree felony conviction can result in up to five years in state prison.
- Your criminal history. If you have prior domestic violence convictions or were on probation at the time of the offense, you could face enhanced penalties. Repeat offenders are more likely to receive harsher sentences.
- Aggravating factors. Certain aggravating factors can elevate charges and increase potential jail time. These may include causing severe injuries, committing the offense in front of children, or violating a restraining order.
Fines and Court Fees
In addition to possible incarceration, a domestic violence conviction often comes with hefty fines and court costs. For a first-degree misdemeanor, you could be ordered to pay up to $1,000 in fines, plus additional court fees and surcharges. Felony convictions carry even steeper fines, up to $10,000 for a third-degree felony.
These financial penalties are separate from any restitution the court may order you to pay the victim for medical expenses, property damage, or other losses related to the offense.
Probation
If you're sentenced to probation for a domestic violence conviction, you'll have to comply with strict conditions set by the court. Common requirements include:
- Regular check-ins with a probation officer. You'll need to report to your probation officer as scheduled and keep them informed of any changes in your employment, residence, or contact information.
- No contact with the victim. The court will likely order you to have no contact with the alleged victim for the duration of your probation. This may include in-person contact, phone calls, text messages, emails, or social media interaction.
- Completion of a batterer's intervention program (BIP). Many domestic violence sentences include mandatory participation in a 26 or 52-week BIP. These court-approved programs aim to help offenders learn healthy relationship skills and non-violent conflict resolution.
- Substance abuse treatment. If drugs or alcohol played a role in the offense, the court may require you to undergo a substance abuse evaluation and complete any recommended treatment as part of your probation.
Violating any of these conditions could result in additional criminal charges, fines, or even revocation of your probation and imposition of the original jail sentence.
Long-Term Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
Beyond the criminal penalties, a domestic violence conviction can impact your life for years to come. Some potential long-term consequences include:
- Employment difficulties. A domestic violence conviction on your record may make it harder to find or keep a job, especially in fields that require professional licensing or security clearances.
- Housing issues. Many landlords conduct criminal background checks on potential tenants. A domestic violence conviction could limit your housing options.
- Child custody and visitation. If you have children with the alleged victim, a conviction could affect your custody and visitation rights. The court may impose supervised visitation or limit your parenting time based on the circumstances of your case.
- Firearms restrictions. Federal law prohibits those convicted of domestic violence misdemeanors from possessing firearms. A felony conviction results in the loss of your right to own or possess guns under both federal and Florida law.
- Immigration consequences. For non-citizens, a domestic violence conviction can trigger deportation proceedings, even for those with green cards or other lawful status.
Get Help From a Skilled Broward County Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
If you're facing domestic violence charges, the stakes are high. Don't risk your future by trying to handle it on your own. An experienced Broward County criminal defense attorney can assess your case, explain your options, and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
From challenging shaky evidence to negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges, your lawyer will be your staunch advocate every step of the way. In some cases, it may even be possible to get the charges dismissed entirely. The sooner you reach out for help, the better your chances of securing a favorable outcome and moving forward with your life.