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Domestic Battery in Orlando, FL
Domestic Battery
Orlando, Florida Domestic Battery Lawyer
A domestic battery arrest can happen suddenly and have immediate, serious consequences. In Florida, once law enforcement is called to a domestic disturbance, officers are often required to make an arrest if they believe domestic violence has occurred. These cases are treated as criminal matters, not private family disputes, and can result in jail time, court-ordered restrictions, and a permanent criminal record.
If you have been charged with domestic battery in Orlando, it is critical to seek legal representation right away. At Hanlon Law, Orlando criminal defense attorney William Hanlon understands the gravity of these charges and the impact they can have on your family, career, and future. Our firm is well-versed in the defenses available in domestic battery cases and is committed to aggressively protecting the rights of the accused.
What Is Domestic Battery Under Florida Law?
Domestic battery is defined under Florida Statute § 741.28 and is classified as a form of domestic violence. A person may be charged if they intentionally touch or strike another person against their will or intentionally cause bodily harm to a family or household member.
Florida law defines family or household members broadly and includes:
- Current or former spouses
- Individuals related by blood or marriage
- Persons who currently live together or have lived together as a family
- Individuals who share a child together, regardless of marital status
With the exception of parents of a shared child, the individuals involved must currently live together or have lived together in the same household to meet the statutory definition.
Consequences of a Domestic Battery Conviction in Orlando, Florida
Domestic battery is typically charged as a first-degree misdemeanor, which can carry penalties of up to:
- One year in jail or probation
- Fines up to $1,000
Additional consequences often include mandatory completion of a Batterer’s Intervention Program, community service, a minimum jail sentence if bodily injury is found, and the imposition of a no-contact order or domestic violence injunction. A conviction may also result in the loss of certain civil rights, including firearm ownership.
Unlike many other criminal offenses, domestic violence convictions cannot be sealed or expunged, even if adjudication is withheld. This means the charge can permanently affect future sentencing, employment opportunities, professional licensing, housing, and educational prospects.
Defending Against Domestic Battery Allegations in Orlando, Florida
An arrest for domestic battery does not mean a conviction is inevitable. With early and effective legal representation, it may be possible to have charges reduced or dismissed. At Hanlon Law, we thoroughly evaluate the facts of each case and develop defense strategies tailored to the circumstances.
Potential defenses may include:
- Self-defense or defense of others
- False or exaggerated allegations made during emotional disputes
- Lack of physical evidence or injuries
- Conflicting witness statements
- Mutual combat
In many cases, domestic battery allegations arise from heated arguments, misunderstandings, or retaliatory accusations. A skilled defense attorney can challenge the credibility of the evidence and highlight weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
The Role of the Alleged Victim and No-Contact Orders in Florida
After a domestic battery arrest, courts frequently impose a no-contact order, which prohibits any communication with the alleged victim. Violating this order can result in additional criminal charges. While the alleged victim does not control whether charges move forward, their willingness or reluctance to testify may influence how the State Attorney’s Office proceeds.
When appropriate, Hanlon Law may seek to modify conditions of release or present evidence showing that the alleged victim does not wish to pursue the case, all while ensuring strict compliance with court orders and legal procedures.
Why Choose Hanlon Law
Domestic battery cases require an attorney who understands both the legal and personal stakes involved. Attorney William Hanlon has been defending individuals accused of assault and battery offenses since 1994. He brings decades of experience, a strong reputation in Orlando courts, and a commitment to personalized, strategic representation.
At Hanlon Law, we take domestic battery allegations seriously and work diligently to minimize their impact on your life. Our goal is to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future at every stage of the criminal process.
If you have been arrested or are under investigation for domestic battery in Orlando or the surrounding areas, do not wait to seek legal help. Early intervention can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case.
Contact Hanlon Law today by
phone or
online to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Orlando domestic battery lawyer. We are prepared to fight for the best possible resolution and help you move forward with your life.
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