Facing domestic violence charges in Tampa can be overwhelming and life-altering. A conviction could lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record that impacts your ability to maintain employment, housing, or even contact with loved ones. At The Lipsey Law Firm, our experienced Tampa domestic violence lawyer, Attorney Theo Lipsey, is committed to providing aggressive and strategic defense to protect your rights and freedom. Whether you’re facing false accusations or complicated legal issues, we are here to fight for your future.
Why Choose The Lipsey Law Firm for Domestic Violence Defense?
- Experienced Representation: Attorney Lipsey has successfully defended clients accused of domestic violence in Tampa and surrounding areas. We understand the complexities of these cases and work to uncover all the facts.
- Strategic Defense: We tailor our defense strategies to the specific details of your case, whether it involves a misunderstanding, false accusations, or mitigating circumstances.
- Compassionate Advocacy: Domestic violence charges can be highly emotional and complex. We treat each case with care and confidentiality, focusing on protecting your future.
Understanding Florida Domestic Violence Laws
In Florida, domestic violence is defined as any violent act or threat of violence between family members, household members, or individuals in a close relationship. Domestic violence charges can stem from incidents involving:
- Spouses or Ex-Spouses
- Cohabitants or Former Cohabitants
- Parents of a Child in Common
- Individuals in a Dating Relationship
Common domestic violence charges include:
- Assault and Battery
- Aggravated Assault
- Stalking
- Kidnapping
- False Imprisonment
- Violations of Restraining Orders
Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
The penalties for domestic violence in Tampa can be severe and may include:
- Jail Time: A domestic violence conviction can result in months or even years of incarceration depending on the severity of the charges.
- Fines: Fines for domestic violence charges can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- Mandatory Counseling: Convictions often result in mandatory attendance at domestic violence intervention programs or anger management classes.
- Restraining Orders: A conviction may result in a permanent restraining order, which could restrict your access to your home, family, or children.
- Loss of Rights: A domestic violence conviction may affect your rights to possess a firearm, apply for certain jobs, or have contact with your children.
A conviction can follow you for years, making it essential to have an experienced attorney who can provide an effective defense.
Common Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges
At The Lipsey Law Firm, we approach domestic violence cases with thorough investigation and a strong defense strategy. Common defenses we may use include:
- False Allegations: Domestic violence accusations are sometimes made out of anger or in an attempt to gain leverage in custody or divorce proceedings. We will investigate the circumstances and expose any false claims.
- Lack of Evidence: We challenge the prosecution’s evidence by scrutinizing witness statements, police reports, and physical evidence to determine if there is enough proof to support the charges.
- Self-Defense: If you acted in self-defense to protect yourself from harm, we will present evidence showing that you were not the aggressor.
- Accidental Injury: If the injury occurred unintentionally or was the result of an accident, we will argue that the incident does not qualify as domestic violence under Florida law.
Florida Restraining Orders (Injunctions)
A common consequence of domestic violence charges is the issuance of a restraining order, also known as an injunction. In Florida, there are different types of injunctions, including:
- Temporary Restraining Orders: Issued immediately upon the request of an alleged victim and typically valid for up to 15 days.
- Permanent Injunctions: Issued after a full hearing and can last indefinitely, severely restricting your freedom to contact the alleged victim or visit certain locations.
If you have been served with a restraining order, it’s crucial to comply with the terms and seek legal counsel to challenge the order in court. We will represent you at the injunction hearing and fight to protect your rights.
Steps to Take After Being Charged with Domestic Violence in Tampa
- Avoid Contact with the Alleged Victim: If a restraining order is in place, do not attempt to contact the alleged victim in any way. Violating a restraining order can lead to further legal issues.
- Gather Evidence: Collect any evidence that supports your defense, such as text messages, emails, or witness statements that dispute the allegations.
- Contact The Lipsey Law Firm: Time is critical in domestic violence cases. Contact our experienced domestic violence lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your defense strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence Defense in Tampa
1. What happens if I’m falsely accused of domestic violence?
False accusations are, unfortunately, common in domestic violence cases. Our firm works to uncover the truth by investigating the allegations and building a strong defense to clear your name.
2. Can a domestic violence charge be dropped?
In some cases, charges can be dropped if the alleged victim recants their story, or if we successfully challenge the prosecution’s evidence. However, the decision to drop charges is ultimately up to the prosecutor.
3. Will I lose my right to see my children after a domestic violence charge?
A domestic violence conviction could impact your child custody or visitation rights. We will fight to protect your parental rights and work toward a favorable outcome.
Contact The Lipsey Law Firm for a Free Domestic Violence Defense Consultation
If you are facing domestic violence charges in Tampa, you need experienced legal representation. The Lipsey Law Firm is ready to defend your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Call: 813-683-7017
Visit: 13065 W Linebaugh Ave, Suite 102, Tampa, FL 33626
Email: contactus@lipseylawfirm.info
