Brandon Domestic Violence Lawyer
Protecting Families in Florida
Domestic violence affects over ten million people in the United States every year. While it can sometimes be difficult to identify, its impacts are very clear. Domestic abuse negatively impacts an individual’s psychological and physical health, overall quality of life, productivity, and emotional well-being.
As domestic violence typically occurs in an intimate or close relationship, the chances of reporting the abuse are low – especially in a relationship with a disproportionate amount of power. Domestic abuse has long-term consequences and should be reported. Contact Barnett | Gill immediately if you or someone you love is at risk.
Schedule a free consultation with a dedicated Brandon domestic violence lawyer by calling us at (813) 305-0353 or contacting us online. We're here to help!
How Does Florida Define Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is defined by the Florida Department of Children and Families as "a pattern of behaviors that adults or adolescents use against their intimate partners or former partners to establish power and control.” The types of domestic violence are:
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Economic abuse
Domestic violence might look like:
- Threats
- Isolation
- Intimidation
- Neglect
- Manipulation
- Battery
- Assault
- Stalking
- Kidnapping
- Murder
To press charges for domestic violence, the family members involved must all reside in the same home – unless you have a child with an individual outside of the residence.
What Are the Three Phases of Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence and abuse are cyclical and occur in three phases: tension building, explosive, and honeymoon.
- Tension building phase: In this phase, tension is created as the abuser gets argumentative, angry, and upset. The abuser may use threats or coercion to manipulate the victim. The victim may feel that he/she is walking on eggshells, afraid of what will happen next.
- Explosive phase: Also known as the use-of-violence phase, this is where a major act of violence happens.
- Honeymoon phase: After the explosive burst of anger, the abuser often feels remorse and will seek to rectify his/her actions by being apologetic.
What to Do if You Are Experiencing Domestic Violence?
As domestic violence happens within an intimate relationship, victims often justify their abusers’ actions. This is very risky as it continues the cycle of abuse. If you are a victim of domestic violence, you must seek out information (do not give anyone access to your search history on the internet) and help. Your safety depends on this. Contact a local domestic violence center and consult with an experienced domestic violence attorney in Brandon you can trust.
Legal Protections for Domestic Violence Victims
In Florida, family law courts provide legal avenues for victims of domestic violence to seek protection. One of the most common forms of protection is a domestic violence injunction (also known as a restraining order). A domestic violence injunction is a court order that prohibits the alleged abuser from contacting or approaching the victim.
There are several types of injunctions that a Brandon domestic violence lawyer can help you pursue:
- Temporary Injunction: A temporary injunction is a short-term order that can be issued immediately upon the filing of a petition for protection. This injunction provides immediate relief and may last until the court conducts a hearing to determine whether a longer-term injunction is appropriate.
- Permanent Injunction: A permanent injunction is a long-term order that can last for up to one year or longer, depending on the circumstances. This injunction can provide lasting protection against the abuser, including orders for no contact, eviction from the shared home, and restrictions on visitation or custody.
- Child Custody Modifications: In cases involving children, the court may modify existing child custody arrangements to protect the children from exposure to domestic violence. This could include supervised visitation or changes to primary custody if the child’s safety is at risk.
- Temporary Financial Support: In some cases, the court may award temporary financial support, including alimony or child support, while the domestic violence case is pending. This support helps to ensure that the victim is financially stable during the legal proceedings.
A Brandon domestic violence attorney can guide you through the process of applying for and obtaining an injunction, helping you understand your rights and the legal remedies available to you.
Steps to Take if You Are a Victim of Domestic Violence
If you are a victim of domestic violence, taking immediate steps to protect yourself and your family is crucial. Here are some important steps to take:
- Call 911: If you are in immediate danger, call 911 for emergency assistance. Law enforcement can respond quickly to help protect you and ensure that any immediate threats are addressed.
- Seek Medical Attention: If you have been injured, seek medical care as soon as possible. Medical records can serve as evidence in your case and may help substantiate your claims of abuse.
- Document the Abuse: Keep a record of any incidents of abuse, including dates, times, and descriptions of the events. If there are any witnesses to the abuse, note their names and contact information. Take photos of any injuries or damage to property caused by the abuser.
- Reach Out for Help: Contact a Brandon domestic violence lawyer to discuss your situation and understand your legal options. A lawyer can help you file for a domestic violence injunction and assist you with any other legal actions you may need to take.
- Create a Safety Plan: Develop a safety plan that includes where you can go if you need to leave your home quickly, who you can contact for support, and how you can protect yourself and your children.
- Protect Your Children: If children are involved, their safety should be a top priority. A Brandon domestic violence lawyer can help you pursue changes to custody arrangements to ensure that your children are not exposed to further harm.
Take Action Now to Protect Yourself and Your Family - Contact Our Office in Brandon
If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic violence, contact a Brandon domestic violence lawyer as soon as possible. Whether you need a restraining order, assistance with child custody matters, or help defending against allegations, we are here to provide the legal support you need during this difficult time. Call today or reach out online to schedule a consultation with a dedicated Brandon domestic violence attorney who can help you protect your rights and your future.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, contact the firm online or call the office immediately at (813) 305-0353 to discuss your options.
Our Team
Serving Florida Families Since 1988
Testimonials From Real People
-
“I definitely recommend!”
-
“Great family practice.”
-
“Turned my life around.”
Contact Us Today
Schedule a personalized consultation by emailing us using the form below or calling (813) 305-0353.
