Skip to content
(754) 206-6200
Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Lawyer
  • Cases We Handle
    • DUI
    • Sex Crimes
    • Domestic Violence
    • Theft
    • Assault and Battery
    • Drug Crimes
    • Property Crimes
    • Robbery
    • Weapons Crimes
    • White Collar
    • Federal
    • Marchman Act & Baker Act
  • Locations
    • Fort Lauderdale
    • Sunrise
    • Boca Raton
    • Coral Gables
    • Miami
    • Doral
    • Miramar
    • Wellington
    • Palm Beach Gardens
  • Meet Our Team
  • Resources
    • Blog
    • Reviews
    • Our Results
    • Free Legal Guides
    • Internships
    • Scholarships
    • Newsletter
    • Podcast
    • Our Community
  • Contact Us
Available 24 Hours (754) 206-6200

Domestic Violence: It’s not always what you think

Home  /  The Rossen Law Firm Criminal Justice Blog  /  Domestic Violence: It’s not always what you think

September 19, 2024 | By Rossen Law Firm
Domestic Violence: It’s not always what you think

When people hear about domestic violence charges, they often assume the worst—that a severe, aggressive, and violent act has taken place. While domestic violence is a serious matter, many are unaware that the legal definition encompasses a wide range of situations, some of which may not fit the traditional image of domestic abuse. Even a minor family dispute can escalate into a domestic violence-related arrest, leading to life-altering legal consequences.

At Rossen Law Firm, we recognize the gravity of domestic violence cases. However, we also understand that many people charged with domestic violence may have never imagined they would find themselves in this situation. It’s crucial to know what constitutes domestic violence in Florida, what legal repercussions you could face, and how an experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process.

Unexpected Domestic Violence Arrests: A True Scenario

Imagine this scenario:

Your teenage son has been spending too much time on screens, and as his parent, you decide to take away his devices for the afternoon. Frustrated and overwhelmed, he reacts impulsively, yelling and tackling you to the ground in anger. You leave the room, thinking little of it.

A neighbor overhears the shouting and calls the police. When officers arrive at your home, they conduct interviews and determine that physical contact occurred. Without your realization, the situation has escalated from a minor parent-child dispute to an arrest for a domestic violence-related simple battery charge.

Now, your son is being taken to the police station for processing. What started as a typical household disagreement has resulted in legal trouble that could have serious consequences for his future.

This isn’t the kind of situation most people think of when they hear ‘domestic violence,’ but it happens more often than you might expect.

What is Domestic Violence in Florida?

Florida law defines domestic violence as any criminal offense that results in unlawful touching, physical injury, or death of a family or household member by another. This includes spouses, ex-spouses, individuals related by blood or marriage, individuals who currently or previously lived together, and people in a dating relationship.

Domestic violence charges can arise from:

  • Physical altercations (even if no injuries occur)
  • Heated arguments that lead to police intervention
  • False or exaggerated accusations from family members
  • Situations where a third party calls the police without fully understanding the context

The Consequences of Domestic Violence Charges in Florida

Even a minor altercation can lead to serious legal repercussions. Domestic violence charges range from misdemeanors to felonies, with penalties including:

  • Misdemeanor charges (such as simple assault or battery): Up to one year in jail and fines
  • Felony charges (such as aggravated assault, battery by strangulation, or false imprisonment): Five years to life in prison, depending on the severity
  • Restraining orders: You may be prohibited from contacting certain individuals, including your own children
  • Loss of custody: A domestic violence conviction can negatively impact child custody or visitation rights
  • Employment consequences: A criminal record may jeopardize your job or future career opportunities
  • Permanent criminal record: A conviction could remain on your record, affecting future opportunities in housing, employment, and more

Why You Need a South Florida Domestic Violence Lawyer

Regardless of how the situation unfolded, if you are facing domestic violence charges, you need an experienced defense attorney to protect your rights. At Rossen Law Firm, our skilled domestic violence attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.

Even if the alleged victim does not want to press charges, Florida prosecutors can proceed with the case anyway. That’s why it’s critical to have legal representation from the very beginning.

Our firm can help you:

  • Understand your charges and possible defenses
  • Gather evidence and witness statements to build your case
  • Challenge false or exaggerated accusations
  • Negotiate for reduced charges or case dismissal
  • Protect your record and future opportunities

Seeking Protection as a Victim of Domestic Violence

If you are a victim of domestic violence, you deserve protection and legal support. Obtaining a restraining order or pursuing legal action can be challenging, but having an attorney guide you through the process can make all the difference.

If you are in immediate danger, do not hesitate to call 911 or reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) for assistance and resources.

Take Action Today

Domestic violence cases are complex and can have long-lasting effects on your personal and professional life. If you or a loved one is facing domestic violence charges or if you need legal protection as a victim, the Rossen Law Firm is here to help. Contact us today for a confidential consultation, and let us guide you through this difficult time with the legal expertise and compassion you deserve.

 

Contact Us


    Recent Blogs

    • How Do Expired Cannabis Cards Create Legal Headaches for Medical Maijuana Patients?
    • Is It Legal to Use Someone Else’s Personal Use Gummies in Florida?
    • Recognizing South Florida’s Community Heroes
    • Taking Our Fight for Justice to the Capitol
    • Adam Rossen Shares Internship Insights at TGR Live 2025
    Consuelo M.
    7 days ago
    If you need an attorney in South Florida, just go to Rossen Law!!! We had the pleasure of working with Scott and he is the absolute best!!! Super sharp, easy to talk to, and always on top of everythi... read more
    R F
    19 days ago
    My husband and I cannot thank Rossen law firm enough. They are a team of professionals that really genuinely care about their clients. Their guidance and support throughout the whole process was inva... read more
    Bobby S.
    a month ago
    David Tarras and Manny were very responsive and very professional. They have deep understanding of the laws and are able to listen to their clients. Very impressed by the team.
    See All Reviews

    Contact Us

    Call us at (754) 206-6200 or fill out the form below to receive a free and confidential initial consultation.


      Fort Lauderdale Office
      6400 N Andrews Ave, #510,
      Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
      (754) 206-6200
      Rossen Law Firm
      5301 N Federal Hwy #255,,
      Boca Raton, FL 33487
      (561) 880-8181
      Rossen Law Firm
      6190 NW 11th St,
      Sunrise, FL 33313
      (754) 999-2499
      Rossen Law Firm
      3361 Fairlane Farms Rd Suite 1S,
      Wellington, FL 33414
      (561) 899-5955
      Rossen Law Firm
      8950 SW 74th Ct Suite 2201,
      Miami, FL 33156
      (786) 705-8300
      Rossen Law Firm
      2750 SW 145th Ave, #112A,
      Miramar, FL 33027
      (754) 704-1818
      Coral Gables Office
      2600 S Douglas Rd, Suite 502B,
      Coral Gables, FL 33134
      (786) 933-7133
      Rossen Law Firm
      800 Village Square Crossing Suite 114,
      Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
      (561) 778-8478
      Doral Office
      3105 NW 107th Ave, Suite 400,
      Doral, FL 33172
      (786) 755-3233
      • Practice Areas
      • Proven Defense Strategies That Win
      • Blog
      • Team
      © 2025 Rossen Law Firm All Rights Reserved, Reproduced with Permission | Sitemap | Privacy Policy