Dealing with domestic violence is never easy. If you’re facing abuse or have been falsely accused in Orlando, FL, contact us for a confidential consultation at (407) 420-2311. Our Orlando domestic violence lawyers at Law Office Of Paulette Hamilton Divorce Lawyers can explain your rights and help you move forward.
We have 15 years of combined experience helping people with cases involving domestic violence. Our goal is to support you and help you navigate the legal system during this difficult time.
How Law Office Of Paulette Hamilton Divorce Lawyers Can Help Domestic Violence Victims in Orlando, FL
Being a victim of domestic violence is a frightening and overwhelming experience. You might not know where to turn or what steps to take. That’s where we come in. At Law Office Of Paulette Hamilton Divorce Lawyers, we’re committed to helping victims of domestic abuse get the legal protection and support they deserve.
Here’s how our Orlando family lawyers can help:
- File for a protective order: We can help you get a restraining order to keep your abuser away.
- Resolve child custody issues: If your children are involved, we’ll fight to protect their safety in family court.
- Help with a divorce case: If you decide to file for divorce, we’ll guide you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected.
- Provide legal advice and support: We’ll be by your side every step of the way, making sure you understand all your options.
Our team has years of experience handling domestic violence cases in Orlando, Florida. We know how to help you stay safe while dealing with the legal process.
What To Do if You’ve Been Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence
False accusations of domestic violence can turn your life upside down. Even if the claims aren’t true, you could still face serious consequences, like losing custody of your children or dealing with a restraining order. It’s crucial to act fast if you’re falsely accused.
Our domestic violence attorneys in Orlando can:
- Defend your rights: We’ll work to protect you from unfair consequences.
- Challenge false claims: If a restraining order was issued based on false allegations, we’ll help you fight it in court.
- Protect your custody rights: False accusations can impact your ability to see your kids, but we’ll fight to keep your parental rights intact.
Don’t wait to get legal help if you’re facing false accusations. Our Orlando family law attorneys are here to defend your rights and clear your name.
Understanding Domestic Violence in Orlando, FL
Domestic violence is a serious issue in Florida. In a recent year, there were over 105,000 reported cases of domestic violence across the state. A significant portion of those cases were likely in Orange County, considering its population.
Domestic violence can take many forms, including physical abuse, stalking, threats, and even sexual assault. It’s important to remember that domestic violence isn’t just about physical harm—it can also include emotional, financial, and psychological abuse.
Can I Get a Restraining Order?
Yes, if you’ve been a victim of domestic violence in Florida, you can file for a restraining order to help keep your abuser away. A restraining order, also called an injunction for protection, is a legal document that prevents the abuser from contacting or harming you.
You don’t need to show signs of physical abuse to get a restraining order. If you’re in immediate danger, the court can issue a temporary order that is effective for up to 15 days (unless the judge orders a continuance for “good cause”). After that, we can help you get a longer-term order to protect you and your family.
A restraining order can:
- Stop the abuser from contacting you
- Take away their right to own firearms
- Suspend their visitation or custody rights
- Make them leave your shared home
If you need help getting a restraining order, we’re here to guide you through the process.
We Handle All Types of Domestic Abuse Cases in Orlando
Domestic violence isn’t just physical abuse. At Law Office Of Paulette Hamilton Divorce Lawyers, we can help you after all types of domestic abuse, including:
- Physical violence
- Emotional abuse
- Sexual assault
- Financial control
- Stalking
- Threats or intimidation
- Destruction of property
Domestic violence can affect divorce, child custody, and child support cases. Our experienced lawyers will stand by your side and help you through any legal issues that arise from your situation.
How Domestic Violence Can Impact a Divorce Case in Orlando, FL
If you’ve experienced domestic violence, it can greatly impact your divorce case. Victims of domestic violence often file for divorce to escape the abuse. If you’re in this situation, an experienced Orlando divorce lawyer can help.
Domestic violence can affect:
- Division of assets: Courts may award a larger portion of marital property to the victim if they have medical bills or lost income due to the abuse.
- Spousal support: Convictions for domestic violence can impact alimony (spousal support), with courts sometimes denying support to an abusive spouse.
If domestic violence is part of your divorce case, we’ll work to protect your rights and help you move forward.
How Domestic Violence Can Affect Child Custody in Orlando, FL
Domestic violence also plays a big role in child custody decisions. Florida courts prioritize the child’s safety, and if a parent has a history of domestic violence, it can impact their custody and visitation rights.
However, losing custody isn’t always permanent. Courts may allow supervised visits or require the parent to take steps, like attending anger management classes or going to counseling, before they can regain custody or visitation rights.
If domestic violence is a factor in your child custody case, our lawyers will fight to protect your parental rights while keeping your children safe.
What Should I Do if I’m a Victim of Domestic Violence?
If you are a victim of domestic violence, your safety is the most important thing. The steps you take immediately after experiencing abuse can help protect you and your family.
Here’s what you should consider doing if you’re in immediate danger:
- Call 911: If you are in immediate physical danger, alert law enforcement. They can remove the abuser from your home and help you get to safety.
- Get to a safe place: If possible, try to leave the situation and go somewhere safe, like a friend or family member’s house or a domestic violence shelter.
- Document the abuse: Keep any evidence of the abuse, such as text messages, photos of injuries, and medical records. These can be critical when seeking legal protection.
- File for a restraining order: Contact a lawyer to help you file for a restraining order to prevent the abuser from contacting or approaching you.
We can guide you through the legal process of protecting yourself and your family from further harm.
What Are the Potential Penalties for Domestic Violence in Florida?
If convicted of domestic violence in Florida, the penalties can be severe. Even a misdemeanor domestic violence charge can lead to jail time, fines, and a criminal record. More serious charges, such as felony domestic violence, can result in longer prison sentences and harsher fines.
Here are some potential penalties for domestic violence in Florida:
- Jail time: Depending on the severity of the case, jail time can range from several days to many years in state prison.
- Fines: Convicted individuals may face hefty fines, sometimes thousands of dollars.
- Loss of child custody: A domestic violence conviction can heavily impact child custody and visitation rights.
- A criminal record: A conviction will leave the individual with a criminal record, which can affect their ability to find employment or housing.
It’s crucial to understand the full scope of these consequences if you’re involved in a domestic violence case, either as the victim or the accused.
Contact Our Experienced Orlando Domestic Violence Lawyers for Help
Dealing with domestic violence can turn your world upside down. Whether you’re a victim seeking protection or facing false accusations, Law Office Of Paulette Hamilton Divorce Lawyers is here to help. With over 15 years of combined experience, we’ll provide the legal guidance you need during this difficult time.
Contact our Orlando law office today to schedule a consultation. Our Orlando domestic violence attorneys are here to help you protect your rights and move forward with confidence.
Orlando Domestic Violence Resources
- Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence (FCADV) – A statewide group supporting domestic violence centers and offering resources to those in need, including Orlando residents.
- Orange County Clerk of Courts – Domestic Violence Division – Assists with filing restraining orders and provides details on protective measures for victims.
- Victim Service Center of Central Florida – Offers confidential, no-cost services such as counseling and advocacy for survivors of domestic violence.
- Florida Department of Children and Families – Provides resources and support for individuals impacted by domestic violence across Florida.
