To many people, domestic violence is synonymous with aggression in intimate or romantic relationships. They picture one spouse abusing the other.
A significant portion of domestic violence cases in Florida do involve married couples, those who have had intimate relationships and current romantic partners. However, the state’s definition of domestic violence is actually broader than many people realize and may apply in a variety of different circumstances.
The law extends to family and household members
Domestic violence often involves people who live together. They do not necessarily need to have an intimate relationship. Roommates could engage in domestic violence by becoming physical during disagreements about housework or finances.
Family members who are not spouses can commit acts of domestic violence against one another. One sibling attacking the other and causing major injuries at a family get-together could lead to allegations of domestic violence. So could incidents involving parents and children.
Physical assaults that occur between people who live together or who have a family connection may lead to domestic violence charges instead of simple assault charges. The age of the people involved, the extent of the injuries produced and even the criminal record of the person accused can influence what follows domestic violence allegations.
In some cases, the person accused could also be at risk of an injunction or restraining order limiting their contact with the other party or forcing them to leave a shared residence. If they plead guilty or get convicted, their violent criminal record could limit their opportunities for employment, continued education and even rental housing.
Responding assertively to domestic violence charges is necessary for those who want to preserve their freedom and their reputations. People who understand how the state handles different types of interpersonal conflict can use that knowledge when navigating the criminal justice system.
