A domestic violence charge can turn your entire life upside down. Allegations often arise during heated family situations, and the impact can be devastating—affecting your freedom, your reputation, and your relationship with your loved ones.
The benefit of acting quickly is having a Cocoa Beach domestic violence lawyer that understands both the seriousness and sensitivity of these charges.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we fight aggressively to defend your rights while treating your situation with the care it deserves.
If you’ve been accused of domestic violence in Cocoa Beach or anywhere in Brevard County, call our Cocoa Beach violent crime lawyers today at (321) 44-SHARK for immediate help.
What is Domestic Violence?
Under Florida law, domestic violence includes acts of assault, battery, sexual assault, stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal offense resulting in physical injury or death committed by one family or household member against another.
Domestic violence isn’t limited to physical harm. It can also involve:
- Emotional abuse — threats, intimidation, or harassment.
- Financial abuse — restricting access to money or resources.
- Control and coercion — behaviors designed to dominate or isolate a partner.
Because these cases are so personal and often involve conflicting stories, prosecutors take them very seriously and tend to err on the side of caution when deciding whether to file charges.
What Are Some Common Domestic Violence Charges in Florida?
In Florida, domestic violence charges may include:
- Domestic assault — Threatening or attempting violence against a household or family member.
- Domestic battery — Intentional unwanted physical contact, such as hitting, pushing, or grabbing.
- Aggravated assault or battery — Involving a deadly weapon or causing serious bodily harm.
- Harassment or stalking — Repeated unwanted contact, following, or threats.
- Restraining order violations — Failing to comply with a protective order issued by the court.
Each charge carries unique penalties, and the severity depends on whether weapons were involved, injuries occurred, or protective orders were violated. If you have been charged, call our Cocoa Beach domestic violence lawyers right away.
What Qualifies as Domestic Violence, and How is it Different From Other Offenses?
The difference between domestic violence and other crimes like simple assault or battery often comes down to the relationship between the parties.
Domestic violence charges apply when the alleged victim is a:
- Spouse or former spouse
- Current or former partner
- Person related by blood or marriage
- Person living in the same household as a family member
- Co-parent of a child
This relationship-based classification is what sets domestic violence apart and often results in stricter penalties, such as mandatory counseling and no-contact orders.
What Are the Potential Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction?
A domestic violence conviction can bring severe and long-lasting consequences, including:
- Jail or prison time — Depending on the severity of the charge.
- Fines and restitution — Financial penalties and payments to the alleged victim.
- Mandatory counseling — Court-ordered intervention programs.
- Loss of firearm rights — A conviction can prevent you from legally owning firearms under federal law.
- Impact on family relationships — Protective orders may limit your ability to see your spouse, partner, or children.
- Permanent criminal record — Affecting employment, housing, and reputation.
The stakes in these cases are especially high because they affect both your personal and family life. It is imperative to seek the help of a knowledgeable Cocoa Beach domestic violence lawyer if you have been arrested or charged.
What Should I Do if I Have Been Arrested for Domestic Violence?
If you’re arrested for domestic violence in Florida, it’s important to:
- Know your rights — You have the right to remain silent and to request an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Avoid contact with the alleged victim if a protective order is in place.
- Seek legal representation immediately — These cases move quickly, and prosecutors often pursue aggressive strategies.
Our Cocoa Beach domestic violence lawyers step in immediately after an arrest to protect your rights and start building your defense. Call (321) 44-SHARK as soon as possible if you’ve been charged.
What Are Some Common Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges?
Defenses will vary depending on your situation, but some common strategies include:
- Challenging the credibility of witnesses — Testimony may be inconsistent or influenced by bias.
- Challenging physical evidence — Injury claims may not match the medical records.
- Presenting alternative explanations — Injuries may have resulted from accidents, not intentional acts.
- Self-defense — You acted to protect yourself or your children from harm.
- False allegations — Domestic violence charges are sometimes made during contentious divorces or custody disputes.
Our Cocoa Beach domestic violence lawyers and team carefully examines all evidence and works to expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Is it Possible to Have Domestic Violence Charges Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes. With the right legal defense, domestic violence charges can sometimes be reduced or dismissed.
Options include:
- Plea negotiations that result in lesser penalties.
- Pretrial diversion programs for first-time offenders.
- Challenging insufficient evidence that does not meet the legal standard for conviction.
- Filing motions to dismiss if procedural or constitutional violations occurred.
Each case is unique, but having an experienced Cocoa Beach domestic violence lawyer can greatly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
Why Choose DeGraff Hicks Law Group for Your Domestic Violence Defense?
When the stakes are high, you need more than legal advice—you need a defense you can count on. That’s what the Cocoa Beach domestic violence lawyers at DeGraff Hicks Law Group delivers.
Specialized Domestic Violence Defense
Our Cocoa Beach domestic violence lawyers focus on the unique challenges of domestic violence cases, from understanding family dynamics to handling the sensitive nature of the allegations. Our knowledge of Florida’s domestic violence laws allows us to build strong, strategic defenses.
Experienced Cocoa Beach Domestic Violence Lawyers
Our attorneys have defended clients against domestic violence charges across Cocoa Beach and Brevard County. We know the local courts, prosecutors, and the strategies that work best. Our experience gives us the insight to anticipate the prosecution’s moves and respond effectively.
Client-Centered Approach
We know these cases are deeply personal. That’s why we emphasize compassion, clear communication, and personalized defense strategies. Our Cocoa Beach domestic violence lawyers work closely with you to understand your side of the story and ensure your voice is heard.
Protect Your Rights—Start Your Defense Today with Skilled Cocoa Beach Domestic Violence Lawyers
The problem with a domestic violence charge is clear: it threatens your freedom, your family, and your future. The benefit of working with us is having a trusted legal team who will fight tirelessly to protect you and guide you through this difficult time.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we are here to defend your rights and help you move forward. Call our Cocoa Beach domestic violence lawyers today at (321) 44-SHARK for a confidential consultation.
