Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior used by one person to gain or maintain control over another person in a close relationship. It can occur between spouses, partners, parents and children, or other family or household members. Domestic violence is not limited to physical harm—it can take many forms, including:

Physical abuse: Hitting, slapping, choking, pushing, or any physical harm

Emotional or psychological abuse: Intimidation, threats, humiliation, or controlling behavior

Verbal abuse: Insults, yelling, or constant criticism

Sexual abuse: Any unwanted sexual contact or coercion

Financial abuse: Controlling access to money, work, or resources

Stalking or harassment: Repeated, unwanted attention or threats that cause fear

Domestic violence can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or income. It often escalates over time and can have lasting impacts on the victim’s physical and mental health, safety, and well-being.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, it’s important to seek help. Legal protection, counseling, and support services are available in most communities.

If you are a victim, we help you file for an emergency protective order, represent you in court, and connect you with resources to help you rebuild your sense of safety. If you are someone who has been wrongfully accused, we defend your reputation with the diligence and determination you deserve. 

Domestic violence cases can be painful and frightening, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Crag Chaderton Law, we believe in your right to be safe, heard, and treated with dignity.

Domestic violence in Florida involves any form of harm, threat, or abuse between family or household members. This includes physical assault, battery, stalking, sexual abuse, and even false imprisonment. Florida law takes these cases seriously, and the legal process moves quickly once allegations are made.

If law enforcement finds probable cause, they are required to make an arrest—even if the victim doesn’t want to press charges. After an arrest, judges commonly issue no-contact orders to protect the alleged victim, which prohibit any form of communication. Victims also have the right to request a protective injunction, commonly known as a restraining order, to create a legal barrier between them and the accused. A conviction for domestic violence can lead to jail time, probation, mandatory counseling programs, loss of firearm rights, and complications in child custody or immigration matters.

At Crag Chaderton Law, we understand the emotional and legal weight these cases carry. Whether you're seeking protection from abuse or facing allegations, our team will stand by you with integrity and experience. We help clients in Orlando and throughout Orange County file or contest injunctions, navigate court hearings, and protect their rights every step of the way. Your future and your safety are too important to face this alone—let us help guide you forward with clarity and compassion.

Domestic Violence Penalties in Florida

Domestic violence charges in Florida carry serious consequences—even for first-time offenders. A conviction can impact your freedom, reputation, parental rights, and future opportunities. At Crag Chaderton Law, we understand the weight of these cases and provide strong, compassionate defense when it matters most.

What You Need to Know

In Florida, domestic violence includes physical harm, threats, stalking, or abuse between family or household members. Once charges are filed, the legal system moves quickly—and the penalties can be life-altering.

• Minimum 5 days in jail for any conviction involving bodily harm
  
  

• Up to 1 year in jail for misdemeanor battery; longer for felony charges
  
  

• Mandatory Batterers’ Intervention Program (BIP)
  
  

• No-contact orders and protective injunctions
  
  

• Loss of firearm rights and possible impact on custody or immigration
  
  

• Permanent criminal record—not eligible for sealing or expungement
  
  

Even if the alleged victim wants to drop the charges, prosecutors can still move forward. That’s why you need experienced legal representation from day one.