Being a victim of domestic abuse or violence can be a terrifying experience. The threat of verbal, physical, or sexual violence from someone whom you have known for a long time or someone with whom you share an intimate relationship can make you feel helpless. 

Data shows that in 2016, a total of 9,357 domestic violence cases were reported in Miami-Dade County. Experts believe that the actual number of cases might be higher, as many people are hesitant to report incidents of domestic violence or seek the help of a Miami domestic violence lawyer, especially if the abuser happens to be their spouse or partner. 

If you are a victim of domestic abuse or violence, there are three important steps you need to take to get help and justice. 

  1. Keep all the important documents (passport, insurance papers, social security card, birth certificate, work permits, ownership documents, and more) at a friend’s house or any other safe location so that they remain out of the reach of your abuser. 
  2. Document the abuse in whatever way you can. Take photos of your bruises and save the abusive or threatening text messages, emails, or voice messages left by the abuser. Write down what you are going through in a journal. All this evidence can be used against the accuser in a court of law. 
  3. Get a restraining order against the abuser with the help of a Miami domestic violence attorney. If the threat of violence is imminent, your attorney might be able to get a temporary injunction, which can be issued by the court even if your abuser is not present at the hearing. 

If the abuser tries to violate the terms of the restraining order, they can not only be arrested, but criminal charges can also be brought against them. 

What to Do If You Have Been Falsely Accused of Domestic Violence? 

If you have been falsely accused of domestic abuse or violence by someone in your family, it is important to contact a Miami domestic violence lawyer right away. 

Domestic violence is a charge that carries serious penalties in Florida, which include: 

  • Fines
  • Mandatory counseling 
  • Mandatory community service
  • Jail time
  • Prison time

The prescribed punishment depends on whether you are convicted of a misdemeanor or felony. It should be noted that a felony conviction for charges related to domestic violence cannot be sealed or expunged. It will remain a blot on your record for a long time. So, it is extremely important to hire a skilled and experienced Miami domestic violence lawyer who can passionately defend you and get the charges against you dropped or reduced to the extent possible. 

Need an Experienced Miami Domestic Violence Attorney to Represent You? 

Chad Piotrowski is one of the most successful criminal defense attorneys in Miami with a track record of standing up for the rights of people who are unfairly and falsely accused of domestic violence. 

As a former prosecutor, Piotrowski knows how the state prosecution in Florida works, especially in cases involving domestic abuse or violence. His experience as a prosecutor allows Piotrowski to develop a well-thought-out defense strategy and defend your interests aggressively. 

If your spouse or someone in your family has accused you of domestic violence and if you are in need of a qualified criminal defense lawyer to represent you, contact Chad Piotrowski today at 305-783-3436 or fill out this form to schedule a free and confidential consultation.