Domestic Violence in West Palm Beach
Domestic violence is defined as a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain control over another intimate partner. In Florida, domestic violence is the target of aggressive prosecution and if you've been charged with this offense, you will need a dedicated West Palm Beach criminal attorney to help resolve your case.
Most people associate domestic violence with a fight between a husband and wife - however domestic violence can be between any family member or intimate partner, and can include:
Domestic violence is viewed as a form of battery or assault, but with much more severe penalties. It may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, with up to one year in prison for a misdemeanor and a life sentence for a felony such as molestation of a minor family member. You may even be required to undergo counseling or domestic violence classes required by the court. Your right to own and operate firearms may also be revoked, and you will receive a permanent criminal record.
External Factors in Domestic Violence Cases
Defending these cases can be difficult, because of the fact that deeper issues are often the prime cause - such as:
- Alcohol or substance abuse
- Child custody disagreements
- Pending divorce
- Spiteful family members
Resolving Domestic Violence Charges in Florida
At the Law Offices of Phillip T. Ridolfo, Jr., I am confident that with my 20 years of experience in these matters and eagerness to fight for your constitutional rights, I can help you sort through this. Ideally I can get the domestic violence charges dropped with a plan worked out to restore harmony between you and the accuser. I will personally handle your case with the utmost professionalism and will never hand the case over to a junior attorney, paralegal or secretary. Contact my firm for more information.