Sarasota Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

Experienced Trial Attorney & Former Prosecutor

While we care deeply about our spouse, romantic partner, or family member, disagreements and arguments can happen from time to time. Sometimes, a dispute can become physical, leading to a visit from the police and immediate regret from all parties involved. Unfortunately, domestic battery charges, either a felony or a misdemeanor, are very serious and have consequences that go beyond just the criminal charge. It can be embarrassing and very stressful.

Facing domestic violence allegations in Sarasota or Arcadia, FL? The Law Offices of Eric Reisinger can protect your rights, freedom, and future. Eric Reisinger has handled thousands of domestic battery cases as a prosecutor in Sarasota and Manatee counties and now as a criminal defense attorney. Our Sarasota domestic violence defense lawyer will use these skills and experiences to fight to protect your rights.

Contact our Sarasota domestic violence lawyer immediately at (941) 541-5335 for a free consultation. 

Domestic Violence Laws in Florida

In Florida, domestic violence means committing a violent crime, sex crime, or any criminal offense causing physical injury or death against a family or household member, such as a current or former spouse, dating parner, relative, or even roommate.

The most common type of domestic violence offense in the state is domestic battery, which means intentionally hitting or touching someone else without consent, or inflicting bodily harm on another individual. Domestic battery is a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum jail term of one year and a fine not exceeding $1,000.

However, if the offense involves intentionally impeding a loved one’s breathing or blood circulation, you could be charged with domestic battery by strangulation. This offense is a third-degree felony, which carries a prison sentence of up to five years and a maximum fine of $5,000.

Other types of domestic violence crimes our firm handles:

• Aggravated assault
• Aggravated battery
• Sexual assault
• Sexual battery
• Stalking
• False imprisonment
• Kidnapping

Additional penalties for a domestic violence conviction in Florida include completing the Batterer’s Intervention Program (BIP), increased community service hours, being subject to a protective order, the loss of child custody, and the loss of gun rights.

It is also important to note that the charges can be enhanced if the alleged victim is pregnant or age 65 or older. The battery of a person over 65 years of age is considered a third-degree felony, and the battery of a pregnant family or household member can be enhanced to a second-degree felony. 

A felony of the third degree is punishable by a fine of no more than $5,000 and/or imprisonment for up to five years. A second-degree felony is more severe and carries a fine of up to $10,000 and/or 15 years of imprisonment. 

Does a Domestic Violence Call Automatically Result in Arrest?

The average person might not be aware that if the police are called out for a domestic disturbance the police usually always take one of the parties to jail. Once the person is arrested for domestic battery the person has no bond. That means he or she cannot bond out of jail and has to stay the night in jail and remain in jail until he or she sees a judge at first appearances. After first appearances, if the judge gives a bond the judge could order no contact with the alleged victim as a condition of the bond. This means that a person cannot go back to their own home or even speak to their spouse. The no contact order can stay in effect until the case is over or until the judge rescinds the order.

These are the reasons that it is extremely important that you hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you navigate the criminal justice system from the very beginning. Do not hesitate to let Attorney Reisinger help you get the most favorable results in the courtroom.

Trust Our Sarasota Domestic Violence Attorneys with Your Case

The Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, P.A. is committed to providing comprehensive legal services for individuals accused of domestic violence. Our firm can assist clients in understanding their legal rights, formulating a robust defense strategy, and advocating on their behalf throughout the legal proceedings.

Beyond the legal intricacies, our firm recognizes the emotional toll that domestic violence accusations can take on individuals and their families. Thus, we take the time to offer compassionate legal support, guiding clients with empathy through the challenging legal process. We also prioritize open communication, ensuring that clients are well-informed and actively involved in their legal defense.

To learn more about our Sarasota domestic violence attorney's legal services, contact us today.