Understanding Domestic Violence Charges in Florida
If you’ve been charged with domestic violence 3rd degree in Florida, you face serious penalties that can impact your freedom, reputation, and future. At Russo Law & Advocacy, Dominique Russo defends clients across Florida against these allegations, fighting to protect their rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Under Florida Statute § 784.03, domestic violence occurs when you:
✔ Intentionally touch or strike a family or household member against their will
✔ Cause bodily harm to a family or household member
Note: Family or household member includes spouses, ex-spouses, relatives, co-parents, and romantic partners.
Penalties for Domestic Violence in Florida
A conviction for domestic violence is a 1st-degree misdemeanor, but the consequences may be severe:
| Penalty | Details |
| Jail Time | Up to 1 year in county jail |
| Fines | Up to $1,000 |
| Probation | Up to 1 year of supervised probation |
| Batterers’ Intervention Program | 26-week mandatory counseling program |
| No Contact Order | Prohibits contact with the alleged victim |
| Firearm Rights | Loss of right to own or possess firearms |
Additional Consequences:
- Permanent criminal record
- Difficulty finding employment or housing
- Immigration consequences (for non-citizens)
- Loss of child custody or visitation rights
Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges
If you’re facing these charges, a domestic violence defense attorney can help you build a strong defense, such as:
✅ Self-Defense – You were protecting yourself from harm
✅ False Allegations – The accuser is lying out of anger, revenge, or to gain an advantage in a divorce or custody case
✅ Accidental Contact – The touching was unintentional
✅ Lack of Evidence – No witnesses, injuries, or other proof to support the allegations
✅ Violation of Rights – Illegal search, seizure, or interrogation
Why You Need a Domestic Violence Attorney Near Me
A domestic violence attorney near me provides critical advantages:
✔ Knowledge of local court procedures and prosecutors
✔ Experience negotiating for reduced charges or dismissals
✔ Ability to challenge no-contact orders to allow family communication
✔ Resources to investigate the allegations and gather evidence
FAQs About 3rd-Degree Domestic Violence Charges
1. Is domestic violence battery a felony?
Simple domestic violence battery is a 1st-degree misdemeanor, but it carries severe penalties. However, depending on the severity of the injury and offense, domestic violence may be charged as a felony.
2. Can the victim drop the charges?
The victim can ask the prosecutor to drop the charges, but the final decision is up to the state.
3. Will I go to jail for a first offense?
It depends on the case, but jail time is possible, especially if injuries occurred.
4. Can I own a gun after a conviction?
No, a conviction results in loss of firearm rights.
5. Do you serve my area?
We proudly represent clients in:
- Palm Beach County: West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Jupiter
- Broward County: Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines
- Miami-Dade County: Miami, Coral Gables, Hialeah
- And throughout Florida
Facing Charges? Get Help from a Domestic Violence Defense Attorney
If you’ve been charged with domestic violence 3rd degree, don’t wait—contact Dominique Russo at Russo Law & Advocacy for a free consultation. We serve clients across Florida, including:
📍 Palm Beach County (West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Jupiter)
📍 Broward County (Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines)
📍 Miami-Dade County (Miami, Coral Gables, Hialeah)
“Don’t let a domestic violence charge ruin your life. We fight to protect your rights and your future.”
