{"id":19,"date":"2026-09-30T16:25:28","date_gmt":"2026-09-30T16:25:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/35-196-210-137.nip.io\/?page_id=19"},"modified":"2026-10-27T08:27:12","modified_gmt":"2026-10-27T08:27:12","slug":"miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/patrickwilsonlaw.com\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/","title":{"rendered":"Miami Domestic Violence Defense Attorney | Specialized"},"content":{"rendered":"<article lang=\"en\">\n\n<h1>Miami Domestic Violence Defense Attorney: Representation for Your Case<\/h1>\n<p>Domestic violence charges in Florida carry consequences far beyond criminal penalties\u2014they affect your firearm rights, custody of your children, employment, professional licenses, and housing. If you&#8217;ve been arrested for or charged with domestic violence in Miami-Dade, Broward, or surrounding counties, you need immediate legal representation from an attorney who understands both the criminal process and the personal stakes involved.<\/p>\n<p>Patrick Wilson Law provides <strong>domestic violence defense attorney<\/strong> services to clients in Miami-Dade and Broward County. We understand that domestic violence cases are different from other criminal charges\u2014they involve mandatory arrest policies, protective orders, and collateral consequences that require a careful, focused defense strategy.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Why You Need a Miami Domestic Violence Defense Attorney<\/h2>\n<p>Domestic violence charges can be treated differently under state law than standard assault or battery cases. The moment police arrive at a domestic violence scene, mandatory arrest policies may apply, depending on the facts and applicable law, and an arrest may occur before a complete investigation or consideration of your side of the story.<\/p>\n<p>Beyond the criminal penalties, a domestic violence conviction can carry collateral consequences: depending on the facts and applicable law, it may limit your right to own or possess firearms under state and federal law; family courts may restrict your custody or visitation rights; employers may terminate your employment; professional licensing boards may revoke your credentials; and landlords may deny housing. These collateral impacts can be as damaging as the criminal sentence itself.<\/p>\n<p>Early legal intervention\u2014within the first 48 hours after arrest\u2014is critical. An experienced <strong>domestic violence defense attorney<\/strong> can challenge the police investigation, protect your constitutional rights, negotiate with prosecutors, and develop a defense strategy that addresses both the criminal charges and the long-term consequences you face. Waiting to act allows evidence to disappear, witnesses&#8217; memories to fade, and prosecutors to solidify their case against you.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor)\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your domestic violence case was dismissed, you may be eligible to expunge the record, depending on other factors in your case. Talk it through with me &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867611719\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/patrickwilsonlaw.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Understanding Domestic Violence Charges Under State Law<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;Search_String=&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0741\/Sections\/0741.28.html\">Florida Statute 741.28<\/a> defines domestic violence as any assault, battery, stalking, or cyberstalking perpetrated by one family or household member against another, or by one dating partner against another. This definition is broader than many people realize\u2014it includes current and former spouses, people living together, parents and children, and dating couples.<\/p>\n<p>Common domestic violence charges include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Domestic Battery<\/strong> \u2013 intentional physical contact or threat of contact that causes harm or offense to a family or household member<\/li>\n<li><strong>Aggravated Domestic Battery<\/strong> \u2013 domestic battery involving weapons, serious bodily injury, or a prior domestic violence conviction<\/li>\n<li><strong>Violation of an Injunction for Protection<\/strong> \u2013 violating a restraining order or protective order issued in a domestic violence case<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.flcourts.gov\/\">Florida law mandates arrest when law enforcement has<\/a> probable cause to believe domestic violence has occurred. This mandatory arrest policy means police have little discretion\u2014even if the alleged victim doesn&#8217;t want to press charges, the state can pursue the case. This also means you may be arrested even if the evidence is weak or the allegations are false.<\/p>\n<p>After arrest, you&#8217;re held for up to 24 hours before your first appearance hearing. During this time, you have no contact with the alleged victim (unless the court orders otherwise), and bail or bond conditions are set that may restrict your freedom and your ability to return home.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>The Immediate Aftermath: What Happens After a Domestic Violence Arrest<\/h2>\n<p>The hours immediately following a domestic violence arrest are critical to your defense. Understanding what happens during this time helps you protect your rights and work effectively with your attorney.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The 24-Hour Hold and First Appearance Hearing<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscourts.gov\/\">Florida law requires that you be brought before<\/a> a judge within 24 hours of arrest. During this first appearance hearing, the judge informs you of the charges, your rights, and the conditions of your release. The state presents probable cause evidence (often just a police report), and the judge sets bail or bond.<\/p>\n<p>In domestic violence cases, judges often impose strict conditions: no contact with the alleged victim, no contact with the home or workplace, surrender of firearms, and mandatory intervention programs. These conditions remain in place throughout your case, and violating them creates additional criminal charges.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Mandatory Arrest Policies and Police Discretion<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Unlike other criminal charges, domestic violence arrests in Florida are mandatory when probable cause exists. Depending on the facts and applicable law, police may be limited in choosing to mediate, warn, or let the matter drop instead of making an arrest. Often, the person who calls for help is arrested instead of the actual aggressor. Depending on the facts and applicable law, mandatory arrest policies may limit police discretion, and in a criminal case the prosecution bears the burden of proof rather than you.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Protective Orders and No-Contact Provisions<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The state may seek a temporary protective order (also called a restraining order) at your first appearance hearing. If granted, this order prohibits you from contacting, harassing, or threatening the alleged victim. Violating a protective order is a separate criminal offense that can result in additional charges and jail time.<\/p>\n<p>Your attorney can challenge the issuance of a protective order and advocate for modifications that allow you to return home, maintain employment, or exercise parental rights while protecting the alleged victim&#8217;s safety.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Serious Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction<\/h2>\n<p>A domestic violence conviction in Florida carries criminal penalties and collateral consequences that extend far beyond jail time and fines.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Criminal Penalties<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Misdemeanor domestic battery carries up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Felony domestic battery (aggravated domestic battery) carries up to 5 years in prison. Mandatory intervention programs, probation, and anger management courses are standard conditions of conviction.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Loss of Firearm Rights<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A domestic violence conviction, even a misdemeanor, can cause you to lose your right to own, possess, or carry firearms. If you own firearms, they may be seized by law enforcement.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Impact on Child Custody and Family Law<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Family courts consider domestic violence history when determining custody and visitation rights. A conviction can result in loss of custody, restricted visitation, and court-ordered supervised parenting time. Even if you&#8217;re not convicted, the domestic violence arrest and allegations can be used against you in custody proceedings.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Employment and Professional License Consequences<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Many employers conduct background checks and terminate employment based on domestic violence arrests or convictions. Professional licensing boards (medical, legal, nursing, teaching, etc.) may revoke or suspend your license. Some employers have mandatory reporting requirements that trigger termination upon arrest.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Immigration Consequences<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re not a U.S. citizen, a domestic violence conviction can trigger deportation proceedings and permanent bars to future immigration benefits.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Housing and Rental Denials<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Landlords may deny housing to applicants with domestic violence convictions or arrests. This can make it difficult to secure housing after your case resolves.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Common Defense Strategies in Domestic Violence Cases<\/h2>\n<p>Every domestic violence case is unique, and your defense depends on the specific facts, evidence, and circumstances. Common defense strategies include:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Self-Defense<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Florida law permits the use of reasonable force to defend yourself against imminent threat of harm. In domestic violence cases, self-defense claims are often overlooked because the relationship between the parties clouds the investigation. If you acted in self-defense, your attorney can present evidence of the alleged victim&#8217;s aggression, prior violence, and your reasonable fear of harm.<\/p>\n<p><strong>False Accusations and Credibility Challenges<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Not all domestic violence allegations are true. Some arise from misunderstandings, anger, or deliberate false reports. Your attorney can cross-examine the alleged victim, challenge inconsistencies in their statement, present witness testimony, and expose motive to lie.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Insufficient Evidence<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The state must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak\u2014no injuries, no witnesses, inconsistent statements, or police investigation errors\u2014your attorney can move to dismiss the charges or demand a trial where the burden of proof rests with the prosecution.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Mutual Combat and Primary Aggressor Determination<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>In some cases, both parties engaged in physical contact. Florida law recognizes mutual combat, but law enforcement must identify the &#8220;primary aggressor&#8221;\u2014the person who posed the greatest threat of harm. If the police identified the wrong person as the primary aggressor, your attorney can challenge that determination.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Lack of Injury or Inconsistent Evidence<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Battery requires intentional physical contact that causes harm or offense. If there are no visible injuries, medical records, or photographs documenting harm, the state&#8217;s case weakens. Your attorney can present evidence that contradicts the alleged victim&#8217;s account.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Constitutional Rights Violations<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If police violated your rights during arrest, search, interrogation, or investigation, your attorney can file motions to suppress evidence. Violations include unlawful arrest, failure to read Miranda rights, illegal search and seizure, or coercive interrogation.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with me &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867611719\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/patrickwilsonlaw.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Restraining Orders and Injunctions for Protection<\/h2>\n<p>Protective orders (also called restraining orders or injunctions for protection) are civil orders issued to prevent future domestic violence. They&#8217;re separate from criminal charges but often issued in the same case.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How Protective Orders Are Issued<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A temporary protective order can be issued ex parte (without the other party present) based on the alleged victim&#8217;s testimony alone. This temporary order lasts up to 15 days. At a final hearing, both parties present evidence, and the judge decides whether to issue a final protective order lasting up to 5 years.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Defending Against Protective Order Petitions<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>You have the right to contest a protective order. Your attorney can present evidence that the allegations are false, exaggerated, or that you pose no threat. You can cross-examine the alleged victim and present your own testimony and witnesses.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Violations of Protective Orders<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Violating a protective order is a separate criminal offense. Even unintentional violations\u2014such as being in the same location as the protected person\u2014can result in arrest and additional charges. Your attorney can defend against violation charges by challenging whether you knowingly violated the order or whether the violation actually occurred.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Modifying Existing Orders<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If a protective order is in place, your attorney can petition the court to modify or dissolve it if circumstances change or if the order is causing undue hardship (such as preventing you from returning home or seeing your children).<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Aggravated Domestic Violence and Enhanced Charges<\/h2>\n<p>Domestic battery becomes aggravated domestic battery\u2014a felony\u2014when the offense involves weapons, serious bodily injury, or a prior domestic violence conviction. Aggravated domestic battery carries mandatory minimum sentences and enhanced penalties.<\/p>\n<p>If you have prior domestic violence convictions, prosecutors may seek habitual offender designations or repeat offender enhancements, which increase your sentence significantly. Your attorney can challenge the admissibility of prior convictions, argue against enhancements, and negotiate to reduce charges from felony to misdemeanor when possible.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Representation Across Miami-Dade, Broward, and Surrounding Areas<\/h2>\n<p>Patrick Wilson Law serves clients throughout Miami-Dade County, Broward County, and surrounding jurisdictions, including Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Hialeah, Doral, and Kendall.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Sealing and Expunging Domestic Violence Records<\/h2>\n<p>A domestic violence conviction or arrest can follow you for life\u2014affecting employment, housing, professional licenses, and personal relationships. Florida law allows for sealing or expungement of criminal records under certain circumstances.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Eligibility for Record Sealing or Expungement<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If your domestic violence case was dismissed, you may be eligible to expunge the record, depending on other factors in your case. Whether a conviction can be sealed depends on the facts of your case and on Florida law. Certain domestic violence convictions cannot be expunged, but sealing may still be available.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Benefits of Sealing or Expunging Records<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Once a record is sealed or expunged, you can legally answer &#8220;no&#8221; when asked about arrests or convictions (with limited exceptions for government positions and professional licenses). This can help restore employment opportunities, housing eligibility, and professional advancement, depending on the facts and applicable law.<\/p>\n<p>Your attorney can evaluate your eligibility and file the necessary petitions to clear your record.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Have questions about what happened?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask our team directly. The first conversation is free, confidential, and there is no obligation to continue.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867611719\">Talk to our team<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/patrickwilsonlaw.com\/contact\/\">Talk to our team<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Why Patrick Wilson Law for Your Domestic Violence Defense<\/h2>\n<p>Domestic violence cases involve both the criminal process and the personal circumstances surrounding these charges. Patrick Wilson Law brings:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Domestic Violence Focus<\/strong>: My practice focuses on domestic violence defense, not general criminal defense. I understand the unique legal landscape, mandatory arrest policies, and collateral consequences.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Individualized Representation<\/strong>: Every case is different. We develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific facts, evidence, and circumstances.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Comprehensive Approach<\/strong>: We address not only the criminal charges but also the collateral consequences\u2014protective orders, custody implications, firearm rights, employment impact, and record sealing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Next Steps: Protecting Your Rights and Your Future<\/h2>\n<p>If you&#8217;ve been arrested for domestic violence or charged with violating a restraining order, the decisions you make now will shape your legal outcome and your family&#8217;s future. The first 48 hours are critical\u2014this is when evidence is fresh, memories are clear, and your attorney can take immediate action to protect your rights.<\/p>\n<p>A free consultation with Patrick Wilson Law allows you to discuss your case, understand your options, and learn how early legal intervention can protect you. We listen to your side of the story, evaluate the evidence against you, and explain the realistic path forward.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<p><strong>What is considered domestic violence under Florida law?<\/strong>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;Search_String=&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0741\/Sections\/0741.28.html\">Florida Statute 741.28<\/a> defines domestic violence as assault, battery, stalking, or cyberstalking by one family or household member against another, or by dating partners, and includes current and former spouses, people living together, and parents and children.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What happens immediately after a domestic violence arrest in Miami?<\/strong>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.jud11.flcourts.org\/\">You&#8217;re held for up to 24 hours<\/a>, then brought before a judge for a first appearance hearing where charges are explained, bail or bond is set, and protective order conditions may be imposed.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Can domestic violence charges be dropped in Florida?<\/strong>\nYes\u2014charges can be dismissed if evidence is insufficient, constitutional rights were violated, or if the state decides not to prosecute, though the state pursues most domestic violence cases regardless of the alleged victim&#8217;s wishes.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What are the penalties for domestic battery in Florida?<\/strong>\nMisdemeanor domestic battery carries up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine; felony aggravated domestic battery carries up to 5 years in prison, plus mandatory intervention programs and probation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How does a domestic violence conviction affect child custody?<\/strong>\nFamily courts consider domestic violence history when determining custody and visitation rights, and a conviction can result in loss of custody or restricted visitation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Can I lose my gun rights due to a domestic violence charge?<\/strong>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.justice.gov\/\">A domestic violence conviction\u2014even a misdemeanor\u2014results in permanent<\/a> loss of firearm rights under both Florida and federal law, and this restriction cannot be reversed.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What is the difference between domestic battery and aggravated domestic battery?<\/strong>\nHow a domestic battery charge is classified as aggravated depends on the facts and applicable law, so the specific allegations in your case determine which charge applies.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Can self-defense be used as a defense in a domestic violence case?<\/strong>\nYes\u2014state law permits reasonable force in self-defense against imminent threat of harm, and self-defense may be raised in domestic violence cases when you acted to protect yourself, depending on the facts and applicable law.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What is a protective order and what happens if I violate it?<\/strong>\nA protective order is a civil court order prohibiting contact with the alleged victim; violating it is a separate criminal offense that can result in arrest and additional charges.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Can I get a domestic violence record sealed or expunged in Florida?<\/strong>\nIn some cases\u2014if your domestic violence case was dismissed, you may be eligible to have the record expunged, depending on other factors in your case; whether a conviction can be sealed depends on the facts of your case, and certain domestic violence convictions cannot be expunged.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>When you&#8217;re facing domestic violence charges in Miami or Broward County, the situation feels overwhelming\u2014but you don&#8217;t face it alone. We help people facing domestic violence charges navigate the criminal process while working to protect their family relationships, employment, and future. <a href=\"https:\/\/patrickwilsonlaw.com\/contact\/\">Contact Patrick Wilson Law today for a free<\/a> consultation and let&#8217;s discuss how we can defend your case.<\/p>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Please consult a qualified criminal defense attorney regarding your specific situation.<\/em><\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"\/resources\/miami-homicide-defense-attorney\/\">Miami Homicide Defense Attorney | Patrick Wilson Law<\/a><\/li><li>Miami Theft Defense Attorney | Patrick Wilson Law<\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-index -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/domestic-violence-arrest-broward-county-process\/\">Domestic Violence Charges in Broward County: Arrest Process &amp; Your First Steps<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/aggravated-domestic-violence-defense-lawyer-miami\/\">Aggravated Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Miami<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/domestic-violence-charges-south-florida\/\">Domestic Violence Charges South Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/aggravated-domestic-violence-defense-evidence\/\">Aggravated Domestic Violence Defense Evidence<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/aggravated-domestic-violence-self-defense\/\">Aggravated Domestic Violence Self Defense<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/what-is-the-33-day-rule-in-florida\/\">What is the 33-day rule in Florida?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/are-there-mandatory-arrests-for-domestic-violence-in-florida\/\">Are there mandatory arrests for domestic violence in Florida?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/what-does-florida-statute-741-29-address\/\">What does Florida statute 741.29 address?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/why-do-most-domestic-violence-cases-get-dismissed\/\">Why do most domestic violence cases get dismissed?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/how-long-can-you-go-to-jail-for-domestic-violence-in-florida\/\">How long can you go to jail for domestic violence in Florida?<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<p><strong>Areas we serve:<\/strong> <a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/miami-dade-county\/\">Miami-Dade County<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/broward-county\/\">Broward County<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/florida-keys\/\">Florida Keys<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/kendall\/\">Kendall<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/hialeah\/\">Hialeah<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/miami-beach\/\">Miami Beach<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/homestead\/\">Homestead<\/a><\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-index -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Experienced domestic violence defense attorney in Miami-Dade &amp; Broward. Specialized representation for domestic battery, restraining orders &amp; more. 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felony aggravated domestic battery carries up to 5 years in prison, plus mandatory intervention programs and probation.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How does a domestic violence conviction affect child custody?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Family courts consider domestic violence history when determining custody and visitation rights, and a conviction can result in loss of custody or restricted visitation.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I lose my gun rights due to a domestic violence charge?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A domestic violence conviction\u2014even a misdemeanor\u2014results in permanent loss of firearm rights under both Florida and federal law, and this restriction cannot be reversed.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is the difference between domestic battery and aggravated domestic battery?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"How a domestic battery charge is classified as aggravated depends on the facts and applicable law, so the specific allegations in your case determine which charge applies.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can self-defense be used as a defense in a domestic violence case?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes\u2014state law permits reasonable force in self-defense against imminent threat of harm, and self-defense may be raised in domestic violence cases when you acted to protect yourself, depending on the facts and applicable law.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is a protective order and what happens if I violate it?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A protective order is a civil court order prohibiting contact with the alleged victim; violating it is a separate criminal offense that can result in arrest and additional charges.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I get a domestic violence record sealed or expunged in Florida?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"In some cases\u2014if your domestic violence case was dismissed, you may be eligible to have the record expunged, depending on other factors in your case; whether a conviction can be sealed depends on the facts of your case, and certain domestic violence convictions cannot be expunged.\"}}], \"description\": \"Comprehensive guide to domestic violence defense in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, covering charges, consequences, defense strategies, and legal representation.\", \"dateModified\": \"2024-01-01\", \"datePublished\": \"2024-01-01\", \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"name\": \"Patrick Wilson Law\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/patrickwilsonlaw.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/patrickwilsonlaw.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Sahara Fonseca\", \"jobTitle\": \"Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.floridabar.org\/about\/section\/profile\/?num=1017991\"]}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntityOfPage\": \"https:\/\/patrickwilsonlaw.com\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/\", \"@type\": [\"Article\", \"FAQPage\"]}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/patrickwilsonlaw.com\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Miami Domestic Violence Defense Attorney\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/patrickwilsonlaw.com\/resources\/miami-domestic-violence-defense-attorney\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"Experienced domestic violence defense attorney in Miami-Dade & Broward. 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