Domestic violence is never a topic to take lightly and we at David Olson Law want to equip you with all you need to have a better tomorrow. Under Florida law, domestic violence is defined as false imprisonment, kidnapping, aggravated stalking, sexual battery, sexual assault, simple assault or battery, or any criminal offense leading to injury or death, committed by a household or family member against another household or family member. In the case of parents who have children in common, our West Palm Beach attorney says they may only be considered a family member when they previously or currently reside in the same home.
These are some heavy definitions, but if you or someone you know find themselves in a situation where they don’t know what to do about domestic violence, we hope we can make things a little easier by providing their next steps.
What Are Your Next Steps?
Get Help
Find an attorney who is experienced in handling domestic violence cases. When doing your research, it is important to consider your privacy. If you can, try not to use the same phone, internet connection, or computer as your aggressor. Unfortunately, this may give you a higher chance of getting caught.
Evidence is also valuable in cases like these. Some silent tools to consider using are:
· GPS
· Home Video Alarm System
· Photo of Injuries
According to a West Palm Beach attorney, many domestic violence cases get dismissed because there was not enough evidence. Therefore, if you can gather any evidence, even if it’s only a little, you definitely should.
File for an Injunction
If you or anyone you know is aware of domestic abuse of any kind, the person being abused can ask for protection from the court. Their attorney can petition the court to request an injunction order, also known as a protection order. Once the petition is filed, the court will set a schedule for a hearing. Even if the abuser does not show up for the hearing, the court can issue temporary protection if they find immediate and present danger.
There may be an instance where your aggressor does not show up for the hearing but will contest the temporary injunction. At that point, your attorney will object to the argument because the aggressor slept on his rights and decided not to be at the hearing.
Are you ready to Talk with A West Palm Beach Attorney?
Lawyers protect people. They go to school and study for endless hours to protect those with nowhere else to turn. Contact David Olson Law to stand up for your rights and take your next step forward.
