Although anger and arguments occur in nearly all close relationships, domestic violence should never be tolerated. If you have suffered serious harm or credible threat at the hands of a family or household member, you are entitled to legal protection and the skilled, compassionate representation of a strong domestic violence attorney. In Central Florida, turning to Orlando Family Team is a wise choice.
We have the knowledge, insight, and determination to take over all legal and logistical matters so you can get your bearings. More than that, you can count on us to always treat you with the respect and kindness you deserve.
The Stark Reality of Domestic Violence
In most cases, unaddressed domestic violence escalates, so it is critical to take action quickly. If you or another member of your family or household is in danger, it is time to call the police who are charged with taking such incidents very seriously. Your next move should be getting in touch with an experienced family law attorney who can seek a court order requiring the offending party to stay away and help you pursue more permanent security.
At times, domestic violence is committed or threatened against a third party as a means of intimidation. No matter what, domestic violence is not considered a personal event, but rather a criminal offense. This means that the accuser’s refusal to cooperate with law enforcement or prosecution will not stop the wheels of justice from turning.
How Orlando Family Team Helps Victims of Domestic Violence
There are a number of steps our capable domestic violence attorneys can take to protect you from the horrors of domestic violence. Once you contact us, we will do everything possible to keep you and your family safe from the offender by:
- Gathering evidence to support your claim, such as photos of injuries, phone calls or texts of threats, and witness accounts of violent words or behavior.
- Asking the court for an order of protection restraining order) to keep the offending party away from you.
- Identifying programs, resources and support for domestic violence victims, e.g. helping you find an available safe house, counseling, and other necessary services.
- Assisting you with the process of legal separation or divorce by creating a powerful strategy and preparing all necessary paperwork.
- Protecting your children by helping you to modify orders for child custody and parenting time.
- Providing you with legal counsel and advocacy.
- Representing you forcefully in court.
You can depend on the Orlando Family Team of husband and wife, Ophelia Bernal-Mora and Andrew Nickolaou, to work in your best interests and treat you with the sensitivity and compassion your situation warrants.
Defending Against Charges of Domestic Violence
As committed as our family law attorneys, are to fighting for the rights and safety of domestic violence victims, we are equally committed to protecting clients who have been falsely accused of domestic abuse. Unfortunately, such false accusations are not rare, especially in acrimonious divorces and contentious child custody disputes.
If you have been wrongly accused of domestic violence, Orlando Family Team is here to come to your defense by developing a clear strategy to prove one of the following:
- No offense occurred
- Injury to the plaintiff was unintentional
- You acted out due to a medical or psychiatric disorder, e.g. PTSD and were therefore not in control of your behavior
- You acted in self-defense
We will do everything in our power to protect your freedom, your reputation, and your access to your children.
What Makes Domestic Violence Worse in the Eyes of Florida Law?
As bad as domestic violence is, certain factors can make it measurably worse according to Florida’s legal standards, such as:
- The presence of a child witnessing the violence
- The use of deadly weapons
- The severity of the victim’s injuries
- Past incidents of domestic violence
- Violations of an existing order of protection
Any of these aggravating factors can lead to more severe penalties.
Florida Penalties for Domestic Violence
The penalties for domestic violence in Florida are intended to punish current offenses and deter repeated ones. Depending on individual circumstances, these penalties may include:
- Restraining orders
- Imprisonment
- Probation
- Fines
- Payment of court costs
- Mandatory batterers intervention programs for 6 months
- Community service
- Loss of certain civil liberties, e.g. the right to possess firearms
The severity of the punishment is determined by the nature of the offense as well as the presence of aggravating factors.
Contact Our Dedicated Domestic Violence Attorneys Today
Orlando Family Team has an impressive history of success when it comes to protecting individuals and families from the misery of domestic violence. Whether you are suffering the disabling fear of attack or the anger of being falsely accused of violent behavior, you need the assistance of our experienced family lawyers.
Ophelia Bernal-Mora and Andrew Nickolaou will provide you objective advice that will help you decide how best to move forward. We are well aware that domestic violence is a complex issue and that family dynamics are complicated. Whether you decide that your relationship must be permanently dissolved or is worth the time and effort necessary for healing and reconciliation, we will be at your side. Contact us now so we can help you sort things out and ensure your family’s safety.
