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West Palm Beach Domestic Violence Attorneys

Domestic Violence Attorneys in West Palm Beach

Domestic battery or domestic violence charges occur when a defendant is accused of using violence against a household member.

While defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty, in the eyes of law enforcement and society those accused of violence against household members are too often presumed guilty until they can prove innocence. These charges carry significant criminal penalties as well as social consequences that can include job loss and the inability to return home or visit children. Convictions can also significantly impact divorce proceedings and/or child custody rights and protection orders can even prevent you from moving back home.

Early consultation with an experienced West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer is the best thing you can do to protect your freedom and your rights. Resist the urge to attempt to explain yourself to law enforcement; in most cases a male suspect will be arrested and charged at the scene. What matters is whether you are convicted, and how quickly you seek legal help to fight protection orders and other associated consequences that can negatively impact your life.

Related:  Can Charges Be Dropped in Domestic Violence Cases in Florida?

Domestic Violence Charges

Several common charges associated with domestic violence include:

  • Domestic violence battery: Under Florida Statute 741.28, domestic violence battery is defined as touching or striking a family member, household member or domestic partner against their will. It’s important to note the law covers not only household members, but family members who have previously resided together, and parents of a child regardless of whether they have ever been married or even lived together. Domestic violence means any assault, battery, sexual violence, stalking , kidnapping, false imprisonment or any other criminal offense resulting in physical injury. Domestic violence battery is a first degree misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail, a year of probation and a $1,000 fine.
  • Domestic violence by strangulation: Florida Statute 784.041(2) makes it a third-degree felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation and a $5,000 fine, to impede the breathing or blood circulation of a family member, either by applying pressure to the throat or neck, or even by putting a hand over the nose or mouth.
  • Aggravated assault: Under Florida Statute 784.021, requires only a threat, without actual violence, when a deadly weapon is involved or while in the commission of another felony, which creates a reasonable fear of imminent violence or harm. It is a third degree felony carrying a penalty of up to 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation and a $5,000 fine.

Aggravated battery: Under Florida Statute 784.045(1)(a) the crime is defined as intentional battery with a deadly weapon causing great bodily harm. It can also be charged when a simple battery occurs against a pregnant person. It is a second degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation and a $10,000 fine. It is the most serious charge, short of murder, commonly associated with domestic violence arrests.

Domestic Violence Defense

Consequences of a domestic violence conviction can be quite serious and result in long-term repercussions, including:

  • Mandatory jail time.
  • Permanent criminal record.
  • Ineligible for sealing or expungement.
  • Mandatory counseling.
  • Protection orders that may prohibit you from returning home or even visiting children.
  • Negatively impact divorce, child custody and other family law cases.
  • Forfeiture of gun rights.

There are many legitimate defenses and/or mitigating circumstances an experienced West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer can use in your defense. In many cases, this may result in a reduction or dismissal of the charges against you.

The experienced Palm Beach defense lawyers at Salnick Law, P.A. represent clients facing criminal charges in Palm Beach County and throughout the area, including West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, Jupiter, Lake Worth, Riviera Beach, Greenacres, Lantana and Palm Springs.

Call 561-471-1000 today for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you're charged with domestic violence in West Palm Beach, it's crucial to contact a specialized criminal defense attorney immediately. An attorney like those at Salnick Law, P.A. can assist by advising you not to speak to law enforcement without representation, as this can complicate your case. We will review the charges and evidence, explore potential defenses such as false accusations or self-defense, and work to mitigate any negative impacts such as protection orders or impacts on custody. Our expertise in handling domestic violence cases can significantly influence the outcome by potentially reducing or dismissing charges.Salnick Law, P.A. offers expert legal representation to help you navigate these serious charges and protect your rights.
The consequences of a domestic violence conviction in West Palm Beach can be severe, potentially including jail or prison time, fines, and mandatory completion of a batterer's intervention program. A conviction may also result in a restraining order, loss of child custody or visitation rights, and restrictions on owning firearms. Additionally, having a domestic violence conviction on your record can significantly impact future employment opportunities and housing options. Salnick Law, P.A. works to mitigate these consequences through effective defense strategies.
In West Palm Beach, defenses available for domestic violence charges can include demonstrating that the accusations are false, proving self-defense, showing mutual combat where both parties were equally involved, or presenting evidence of an alibi. Attorneys may also challenge the legality of evidence collection or the credibility of the witness testimony. These defenses aim to mitigate or dismiss the charges based on the specifics of the incident. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your case in West Palm Beach.
Yes. Even after a temporary or permanent protection order is issued, you may petition the court for modification or dismissal. Grounds often include lack of evidence, compliance with conditions, or significant life changes. Your attorney can assist in gathering documentation, coordinating affidavits, and preparing arguments for the hearing. If successful, it may restore your access to your home or communication with children. Courts take enforcement seriously, so professional legal support is critical in challenging or revisiting orders. Timing and preparation matter—early post-hearing action improves chances.
Claims of self-defense or mutual combat can serve as valid defenses, particularly when both parties were participants in a physical altercation. The defense must show you acted to protect yourself or that both parties engaged equally in the conflict. Evidence like medical records, witness statements, or video can support these defenses. A smart attorney will evaluate the circumstances and present a narrative that reframes the incident. Successful defenses may lead to charge reductions or dismissals. Each case requires careful examination to ensure appropriate legal protections are employed.
Yes. A domestic violence conviction can significantly impair your position in family court, affecting custody, visitation, and divorce outcomes. Judges often view such convictions as disqualifying for parenting positions, assuming risk to child safety. Your attorney can work to mitigate these effects by seeking charge reduction, alternative sentencing, or diversion programs—thus distancing the conviction from family court implications. Evidence of rehabilitation or counseling may also be presented to family courts to demonstrate changed circumstances. Addressing both criminal and family law consequences simultaneously is crucial. Early defense efforts can preserve future parental rights and minimize collateral damage.
If you need legal assistance with a domestic violence charge, reach out to us at Salnick Law, P.A. for expert defense. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and provide the best legal options. Don't hesitate to contact us to ensure your rights are protected.

Additional Information in West Palm Beach

Citrus County - Domestic Violence Scars Children – But They Can Recover With The Right Kind Of Care: Emphasizing the impact of domestic violence on children and the importance of supportive care for recovery. It discusses the high prevalence of domestic violence affecting children, leading to long-term physical and emotional issues. The page advocates for trauma-informed care and highlights the Guardian ad Litem program, which supports these children in dependency court. This information can help in a domestic violence case by providing context on the broader impacts of domestic violence, potentially influencing the consideration of child welfare in legal proceedings.
Community Coordinated Care for Children - Family Supportive: Resources and support for families, particularly those impacted by domestic issues, including domestic violence. It lists several services such as the Florida Abuse Hotline, Harbor House of Central Florida, and Help Now of Osceola, offering safety, shelter, and assistance to victims. In a domestic violence case, these resources could be crucial for a victim seeking immediate help or for building a support network that can contribute to recovery and stability. Additionally, understanding these resources may help in legal contexts by providing evidence of victim support and rehabilitation efforts.
The Florida Senate Chapter 741 - Marriage; Domestic Violence: Deals with laws concerning marriage and domestic violence. It outlines procedures and requirements for issuing marriage licenses, discusses premarital preparation, and provides comprehensive regulations on domestic violence, including injunctions and the duties of courts and clerks. For someone involved in a domestic violence case, understanding these statutes can help in identifying legal rights and potential defense strategies, especially concerning injunctions and protective measures.

What Our Clients Are Saying

"Best attorneys around! From the moment I met Michael I knew I was in good hands. Also the father and son dynamic duo leave no stones unturned. Extremely professional and knowledgeable. They are also highly respected by judges and prosecutors alike! You will not regret hiring this law firm for any of your needs!"

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"I reached out to Salnick Law when I was wrongly criminally charged by my employer. A conviction would have cost me my professional certification along with jail time. Michael and Greg stood by me when I refused to accept any plea deals. We went to trial and with the expertise of Salnick Law I was found NOT GUILTY! Throughout my year and a half ordeal Michael and Greg were available to me at any time of the day or night..."

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"My family and I are so grateful for The Salnick Law Firm. Michael and Greg treated me as if I was family. They believed in me at a time when I felt like the world was against me. Because of Salnick Law Firm I have my life back. Their expertise in criminal law gave me my freedom. I thought to be home with my family and free to travel was only a dream but it is reality! Thank you!"

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"Greg Salnick is a fantastic attorney. I am grateful for the care and time he put into my brother’s case. Greg was professional, knowledgeable, and accessible. Greg explained every step in the legal process, and we were thrilled with the outcome."

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"Greg Salnick is not just a great lawyer but a solid human being. He made sure that our entire family was kept apprised every step of the way and generally cared for the well-being of us all. Criminal cases are hard enough but with Greg in your corner you are getting the best hands down."

former client

"Greg Salnick is Harvey Spector from the show suits lol all jokes aside he is the best lawyer I could ask for and Greg will do the best he can always for you and to make you feel like your not just another case"

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"Could not ask for a better lawyer then Greg, was looking at life in prison but he was able to prove my innocence. He has helped many of my friends as well. Trust me I wouldn’t put my life in anyone else’s hands other then Gregs."

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"This Law firm deserves an additional 100 stars ⭐. I'm so pleased with the level of care and time Attorney Michael Salnick put into my brother's case. He did it with passion, love, and honesty. If you need a criminal defense attorney, look no further. Highly recommended! Best attorney ever! His reputation and results are impeccable!"

former client

"Greg Salnick is a fantastic trial attorney, a dedicated professional, and has the utmost integrity. He is someone I trust implicitly to refer my clients to, and is an excellent choice when deciding on an attorney to handle your criminal matter."

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