If you’ve been charged with a crime that’s categorized as domestic violence in Ormond Beach, FL, it’s important you seek legal representation from a qualified domestic violence attorney immediately. The criminal court in Seminole County takes a particularly harsh stance against domestic violence, so having a qualified criminal defense lawyer represent you is essential.
As a former prosecutor, attorney Amanda Kazzi represents individuals who have been accused of domestic violence. She can advise you as to how to avoid receiving additional charges like witness tampering or violation of a restraining order. Call today to schedule an initial consultation.
Penalties for Domestic Violence Convictions in Florida
Florida state statute 741.28 defines domestic violence as “assault, aggravated assault, battery, aggravated battery, sexual assault, sexual battery, stalking, 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.”
The penalties for domestic violence are the same as the penalties for the underlying charges. For instance, an assault is a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida, punishable by up to 60 days in jail or six months probation and a $500 fine. This is similar to domestic assault, but the courts may also refer you to a mandatory anger management course, or they may add other enhanced penalties if you’re convicted.
In order for a crime to be categorized as domestic violence, it must meet all of the elements for the underlying crime, but there also has to be a “domestic relationship.” Domestic relationships include:
- Spouses or former spouses
- Parents with a child in common
- Blood relatives
- Persons who have resided together as a family or formerly resided together as a family
Another way that Florida treats domestic crimes differently than other types of crimes is that the State Attorney’s Office will prosecute these crimes even if the victim refuses to prosecute. That means that if there is sufficient evidence against you, they don’t need the permission of the alleged victim to convict you.
Domestic Violence Statistics
According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, domestic violence crimes are on the decline. Over the past 20 years, the rate of domestic crimes per capita has fallen from 889 per 100,000 residents to 504. Still, there are over 105,000 domestic violence offenses every year. Domestic violence remains one of the most common categories of police arrests in Florida.
How Our Domestic Violence Attorney Can Help You
If you’ve been arrested for domestic violence, there are a number of pitfalls that you need to avoid. With Amanda Kazzi as your lawyer, you will have the best chance of a favorable outcome for your case. Attorney Kazzi was a former prosecutor for many years and can put that training and experience to work for you. She can examine the evidence against you and determine the best course of action for your case and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence Arrests
Attorney Kazzi understands your concerns about your domestic violence arrest. Time is of the essence in these cases. The chances are that the prosecutor already has the reports from the police and is reviewing the case against you. Call today so attorney Kazzi can begin your defense and stand up for your rights.
What happens if I violate a domestic violence injunction?
It can be frustrating to be served with a domestic violence injunction, but it’s important that you avoid violating it. If you’re caught violating an injunction, you could be arrested on a new charge. It can also make it more difficult for you to get the restraining order lifted when you go to court.
Should I talk to my spouse (or the victim) about my charges?
It may seem like a good idea to try to talk your spouse out of following through with your charges, but talking to them about your case can make your case more difficult to defend, or it could lead to the additional charge of witness tampering. If you still reside together, try to avoid speaking about the incident until you’ve talked to Amanda Kazzi.
Can I pick up personal items from my home if I’ve been served with a restraining order?
You should not return home without a police escort, even if the petitioner tells you it’s fine. Call the police from a nearby location and have them go with you. This will remove any doubt that your intentions are anything other than to pick up clothing and other personal items.
Ormond Beach Domestic Violence Lawyer
Former prosecutor Amanda Kazzi is a criminal defense lawyer who uses her knowledge to defend individuals accused of domestic violence in Ormond Beach, FL. If you’ve been charged with a domestic crime, you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney. Call Kazzi Law today.