Domestic Violence Attorney Ocala
Whether this is your first time in the criminal justice system or another run-in with the law, one fact remains: you have the right to legal representation. You’re innocent until proven guilty, and with Meldon Law, you get client-focused service in accordance with that. We have three words for you: you have rights.
A domestic violence attorney from our team in Ocala can advocate for your future, freedom, and peace of mind. We stand by your side through each phase of the legal process, from your arraignment to the jury’s decision. It’s not over until the jury reaches a verdict, and even then, you have options.
Start protecting your legal rights today by partaking in a free case review. Dial (352) 373-8000 to get started.
Meldon Law’s Domestic Violence Lawyers Are Here for You
Meldon Law truly CARES. What does this mean for you? It means that our criminal defense lawyers:
- Offer compassion. This is a stressful time in your life. We offer a shoulder to lean on throughout all legal proceedings.
- Hold ourselves accountable. We’re responsible for your case’s outcome, plain and simple. It’s a heavy burden to carry, but with our decades of experience, it’s no problem for us.
- Pride ourselves on reliability. We’re here when you need us. We respond to calls within 24 hours, so you’re never left guessing about your case’s progression.
- Offer excellence. There’s a reason why clients come to Meldon Law again and again with their legal troubles. Our trial-ready lawyers are ready to manage your case now.
- Get success-driven results. We’ve secured “not guilty” outcomes for cases that initially seemed hopeless. There’s no case too complicated for us to handle.
You can learn more about our case results and commitment to client success today.
Defending Against Domestic Violence Charges in Ocala
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all defense for domestic violence charges. The best defense for your situation ultimately boils down to the available evidence, your criminal record, and your relationship with the alleged victim. We may build a case that asserts:
- You didn’t do it. The victim suffered harm, but not at your hands. You may not have been present, or you may have been there, but someone else committed the violent act.
- The victim’s injuries were accidental. You or another person accidentally caused the victim’s injuries. It was not intentional.
- You acted in self-defense. You may have injured another person in defense of yourself, your property, or a loved one.
- The victim lied. You were not involved in harming the victim. For whatever reason, the alleged victim is motivated to paint you in a bad light. We see this frequently in tense custodial disputes.
- The police acted without sufficient evidence. Emotions run high between family and household members. When police are called for a suspected domestic violence incident, they may arrest you to break up the intensity of the moment, rather than based on supporting evidence.
How Is Domestic Violence Defined in Ocala, FL?
Under Florida law, domestic violence is a criminal offense committed by a household member that results in physical injury or death. Family or household members may include:
- Current and previous spouses
- Anyone related by blood or marriage
- People who currently or previously lived together as if a family
- People who are parents of a child in common, regardless of their marital status now or in the past
- Family or household members who currently or previously lived together in the same “single dwelling unit”
Examples of domestic violence include but are not limited to:
- Any assault
- Any battery
- Stalking
- Kidnapping
- False imprisonment
More broadly, Florida Statute § 741.28 states that “any criminal offense resulting in physical injury or death” committed by one family or household member against another is considered domestic violence. You don’t have to study the law to learn about the ins and outs of domestic violence cases. Our firm is staffed by lawyers from the nation’s best law schools, and we know how to approach tough cases.
Our Ocala Lawyers Protect You From a Domestic Violence Conviction
Once charged with domestic violence, working with an attorney experienced in criminal defense could secure the best possible outcome for your case. Facing such charges alone puts your future at serious risk.
Here are three things we want you to know about these cases:
Certain Elements Can Elevate the Penalties You Face
If convicted, the penalties you face depend on your previous criminal record, the severity of the victim’s injuries, and other aggravating factors, such as:
- The use of a weapon
- A lack of remorse
- The age of the victim
- The victim’s physical or mental abilities prior to the incident
- The age of any eyewitnesses
If a not guilty verdict isn’t possible, we intend to do everything possible to mitigate a conviction’s effect on your life. This may include taking a plea deal with the prosecution or asking for a reduction in charges.
You Could Face Serious State-Imposed Penalties
Penalties for someone found guilty of domestic violence vary depending on the court’s decisions. Yet, mandatory minimum sentencing, according to Florida Statutes § 741.283, includes:
- 10 days in jail for a first offense
- 15 days for a second offense
- 20 days for a third (or more) offense
If the violent act was performed in front of a family or household member 15 years of age or younger, the minimums become 15 days for the first offense, 20 days for the second, and 30 days for the third (or more) offense.
Even a few days in jail could prove traumatizing. You could face threats to your safety, have little communication with your family, and suffer mental health complications. We do everything possible to help you walk away from this whole ordeal with your freedom intact.
A Conviction Results in More Than Incarceration and Fines
A domestic violence conviction comes with other consequences outside of the legal system. It can impact your career, for instance, making it hard to become a teacher or work at a federal agency. It may limit your housing options, as many leasing offices don’t rent to people with criminal records.
By offering comprehensive legal help, we hope to help you:
- Retain custody of your children
- Keep your right to bear firearms
- Remain in your home
- Protect your employment opportunities
We won’t rest until we’ve built a case that puts your future first.
Our Ocala Domestic Violence Attorneys Are on Your Side
Meldon Law has a fierce reputation as a force to be reckoned with, both inside and outside the courtroom––and we put the fierceness to work for you. One incident shouldn’t throw your entire life off balance. With our help, you can breathe easy knowing that we’re doing everything in our power to protect you.
Start a consultation with our legal team today by calling (352) 373-8000. We take on your fight like it was our own, and we won’t back down.
