Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

In Florida, domestic violence charges cannot simply be dropped by you or the other person involved.

Once an arrest is made, the case is handled by the State Attorney, who decides whether to move forward. Even if the alleged victim wants to drop the charges or doesn’t want to testify, the prosecution can still continue the case.

This often happens when there is other evidence, such as witness statements, recordings, or physical evidence. In some situations, charges may be reduced or dismissed if the evidence is weak or inconsistent.

However, that decision is entirely up to the prosecutor or the court. Because of this, it’s important to take the situation seriously and focus on protecting your rights early.

A no-contact order is a court order that prohibits you from having any contact with the other person involved in the case. This includes calls, texts, social media, in-person contact, and even communication through friends or family. These orders are often put in place at your first court appearance and take effect immediately. Even if the other person reaches out to you, responding can lead to additional charges.

In some cases, a no-contact order can be modified or lifted, but only by a judge. This usually requires a formal request and may depend on the circumstances of the case and the wishes of the other person. Until a judge changes the order, it must be followed strictly.

It depends on the specific facts of your case, but jail is a real possibility. In many domestic violence cases, you may be held in custody until your first court appearance, where a judge decides whether to release you and under what conditions. 

Some cases result in probation, counseling, or other requirements instead of jail time. However, more serious charges or prior incidents can increase the likelihood of incarceration.

Every situation is different, and outcomes depend on the evidence, the charges, and your history. Because of this, it’s important to take the situation seriously and get professional legal help as soon as possible. 

A domestic violence charge can stay on your record, especially if it results in a conviction. In Florida, convictions for domestic violence offenses cannot be sealed or expunged. That means it can remain part of your permanent criminal history and may be visible to employers, landlords, and others.

If the case is dismissed or you are not convicted, you may be eligible to have the record sealed or expunged, depending on the circumstances. However, eligibility depends on several factors, including your prior record. Because the long-term impact can be significant, it’s important to take these charges seriously and protect your record from the start.

Cost should not be a concern when you’re trying to protect your future. At TJ Grimaldi, Attorney at Law, we use flat-fee pricing for most cases, so you know what to expect up front. We also offer payment plans when needed.

You work directly with TJ Grimaldi. If your case needs additional resources, TJ can bring in support, but you’ll still have direct access to TJ as he leads your defense.