Domestic Violence Defense Expert Representation with a Personal Touch

St. Petersburg Domestic Violence Attorney

35+ Years’ Collective Experience at Work for You

Have you been accused of domestic violence? If so, we recognize the immense stress you may be feeling. Should you be convicted of an offense, you may face years of imprisonment and hefty fines. Additionally, your reputation and relationships with friends and family could be shattered. In such a difficult time, do you have someone you can count on to protect your rights and tell your side of the story?

Plotnick Law Offices is here to help. Our firm features attorneys who have defended thousands of clients against criminal charges in Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Manatee counties, including domestic violence. With our team on your side, you can move through your situation confidently and know you have someone in your corner to fight for your rights, freedom, and future.

To speak with one of our St. Petersburg domestic violence attorneys, call (727) 619-1827 or reach out to us online. We are available 24/7, so do not hesitate to contact us when you need assistance.

Types of Domestic Violence Crimes in Florida

Domestic violence is defined as violent acts between people in a domestic setting. Most often, these acts include spouses or family members (such as children, parents, or siblings), but domestic violence can involve roommates and significant others.

The following crimes can be considered domestic violence in Florida:

Assault
Battery
Child abuse
Elder abuse
Harassment
Sexual assault
Kidnapping
Stalking

Penalties for Domestic Violence Convictions in St. Petersburg

Domestic violence crimes are not standalone offenses in Florida. Rather, if you commit a violent act against someone with whom you have a domestic relationship, the offense can be charged as such. The potential penalties for these charges vary depending on the specific crime and whether it is a misdemeanor or felony.

If convicted, the possible consequences include jail time, probation, anger management classes, and/or restitution payments. Additionally, convictions can cause you to lose your right to own a firearm or make it difficult for you to find housing and/or employment.

Beyond immediate legal penalties, a domestic violence conviction can lead to long-term repercussions such as the loss of professional licenses, which can significantly affect your career. Moreover, the social stigma attached to such convictions can impact personal relationships and social standing.

It is essential to understand these scenarios and work with a domestic violence attorney who can guide you through minimizing these impacts while advocating for the best possible legal outcome.

The Arrest Process and No-Contact Orders

Once law enforcement is called to a potential domestic violence incident, an arrest is often inevitable. Florida law mandates that officers must arrest someone if they have probable cause to believe domestic violence occurred. Even if the alleged victim later recants or wants to "drop the charges," the State Attorney can still prosecute.

After arrest, a judge will typically issue a no-contact order at the first appearance. This order prohibits any form of contact with the alleged victim, including:

In-person conversations
Texts, emails, or social media messages
Indirect contact through third parties

Violating this order can lead to additional criminal charges. A skilled St. Petersburg domestic violence lawyer can petition the court to modify or lift a no-contact order when appropriate.

How Domestic Violence Charges Impact Family Law Cases in St. Petersburg

Domestic violence convictions—and even allegations—can have severe impacts on the trajectory and outcome of divorce and child custody cases. For example, if you were convicted of domestic violence, you may be unable to have custody of your children. Additionally, you may only have limited or supervised visitation.

As another example, accusations of domestic violence can impact a court's judgment on divorce matters, such as spousal support. If abuse has adversely impacted a spouse’s ability to earn a living or pursue education, judges may use this as grounds to award payments.

At Plotnick Law Offices, we often handle matters involving intersections of domestic violence and family law. Should you feel concerned about what accusations or charges mean for your family law case, turn to us for advice on how to proceed and preserve your individual and parental rights.

Continue Reading Read Less

Felony Fleeing & More Reduced to Misdemeanors Road Less Traveled
Michael, a man in his forties with minimal prior involvement with the law, found himself facing a series of escalating legal challenges, from Felony Fleeing and Eluding charges to Disorderly Conduct and Resisting Arrest with Violence. These incidents threatened to derail the stable life he had built for himself.
Felony to Misdemeanor & DUI to Reckless Driving Leap of Faith
Jason, a man in his twenties with a prior record, found himself charged with serious offenses, including Felony Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Injury and Driving Under the Influence. An additional arrest for a new DUI offense while on pretrial release further complicated his situation.
Dismissal of Charge Turning the Tide
Jeremy, in his twenties, faced the serious accusation of threatening to shoot and kill a co-worker, a situation exacerbated by underlying health issues and a state of fear. This charge threatened to irreversibly impact his future and livelihood.
Felony Battery Reduced to Disorderly Conduct From Discord to Harmony
Nathan, a man in his forties with a prior record, faced charges of Felony Battery on a Person 65 Years of Age or Older. This incident, set in the backdrop of Nathan’s history, threatened to further tarnish his record and affect his future interactions.

Why Choose Plotnick Law Offices?

Experience, Commitment, and Personalized Care

As a former prosecutor, we understand how to build strong cases. Our hands-on approach ensures you’re supported every step of the way.

Experience That Matters

Led by a former prosecutor, Plotnick Law Offices offers unique insights and strategic advantages for every case. Our deep understanding of the legal system ensures that we can effectively advocate for your rights and best interests.
Relentless Preparation

Success begins with preparation. We leave no stone unturned when investigating and building your case, ensuring that every detail is thoroughly examined to strengthen your position.
Hands-On Advocacy

When you choose Plotnick Law Offices, you’ll work directly with an experienced attorney from start to finish. We don’t shuffle clients between attorneys—you’ll always have consistent and reliable guidance.
Personalized Representation

At Plotnick Law Offices, we prioritize building strong, lasting relationships with our clients. We take the time to understand your unique needs and goals, ensuring that your case strategy is tailored to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Defending Against Domestic Violence Allegations in St. Petersburg

Being accused of domestic violence can be a daunting experience, and defending against these allegations requires a strategic approach. At Plotnick Law Offices, we begin by conducting a thorough investigation of the situation. This includes gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and reviewing all statements and police reports. Every detail can be critical in forming a robust defense strategy. Our team also explores every avenue that could potentially mitigate charges, such as highlighting inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements or uncovering biases that may have influenced the situation.

Our goal is to ensure that clients receive a fair trial where their side of the story is heard and considered. We routinely engage with forensic experts, psychologists, and other professionals who can provide supporting evidence that aligns with our defense strategy. This comprehensive approach is essential not only for challenging the charges but also for minimizing potential repercussions. Working closely with our clients, we keep them informed at each step, fostering a partnership that ensures trust and clarity throughout the legal process with our domestic violence lawyer in St. Petersburg.

View All Reviews

“Excellent Communication”
“I cannot thank you enough for your help, Marc, honestly. I made a stupid mistake and it took you no time to take care of the situation.”

- Frank M.
“Pragmatic & Understanding”
“I would definitely recommend them to someone in need of any attorney services.”

- Priestly V.
“Awesome”
“He is compassionate and helpful.”

- Carolyn A.
“Very Experienced”
“In the end, the result was way over my expectations.”

- J. Hughes
“Top Notch”
“Quick to respond to communications and always kept me informed during the entire process.”

- Michael K.
“Highly Recommend”
“I truly appreciate everything he did and his communication with me was greatly appreciated.”

- Tawna L.
“Very Passionate”
“Nothing is worse than waiting around wondering what’s going to happen to you, which didn’t happen at all after hiring Marc.”

- Jared
“Very Impressive”
“When I tell you they treat you like family, that's no lie!”

- Jeffrey B.

Meet Our Experienced Legal Team

Want to learn more about the team behind your case? Visit our About page to meet Marc F. Plotnick and Paul S. Horning, and discover how their experience can make a difference for you.

Learn More

Potential Defense Strategies Against Domestic Violence Charges

Each domestic violence case is unique, and the best defense depends on the facts, relationships, and history involved. Our St. Petersburg domestic violence attorneys focus on a tailored defense approach that may include:

Challenging the Credibility of the Accuser - Many cases hinge on conflicting accounts. We examine inconsistencies, motives for false accusations (such as custody battles), and prior statements to weaken the prosecution’s case.
Self-Defense - Under Florida's Stand Your Ground and self-defense laws, you may be legally justified in using force to protect yourself against violence or threats.
Lack of Evidence - If the State cannot prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, charges must be dismissed. We often expose weak or uncorroborated claims, especially in cases lacking physical evidence.
Mutual Combat - When both parties were engaged in aggressive behavior, this can support a defense against one-sided charges or justify reduced charges.
Witness Testimony and Surveillance - We identify, interview, and subpoena witnesses. If surveillance footage exists, it can provide objective proof that contradicts the accusations.

With the guidance of a St. Petersburg domestic violence lawyer, clients can make informed decisions about plea deals, trial strategy, and potential motions to dismiss.

Why Choose Plotnick Law Offices for Domestic Violence Defense

Our legal team brings decades of courtroom experience to every domestic violence case we take on. As seasoned St. Petersburg domestic violence attorneys, we:

Know how local judges and prosecutors handle these cases
Move quickly to limit damage from arrests and no-contact orders
Conduct detailed investigations to uncover helpful evidence
Fight to protect your rights at every stage—from arraignment through trial

We understand the urgency and emotional weight of these situations and are committed to an assertive, thorough defense. Our reputation as trusted St. Petersburg domestic violence lawyers reflects the results we deliver and the clients we support through difficult times.

Contact Plotnick Law Offices Anytime, Day or Night for a Domestic Violence Lawyer in St. Petersburg

Acting as quickly as possible after you have been charged with domestic violence is in your best interest. Our St. Petersburg domestic violence attorneys can ensure you understand your charges and their implications, review the prosecution's case against you, and craft a strategic defense based on decades of experience in law. Our team knows what works and does not in Florida courts and can leverage this knowledge when defending you.

Request a consultation at Plotnick Law Offices by calling (727) 619-1827 or contacting us online.

FAQ About Domestic Violence in St. Petersburg

What Should I Do If I’m Accused of Domestic Violence?

If you have been accused of domestic violence, it is vital first to remain calm and seek legal counsel from a domestic violence attorney immediately. At Plotnick Law Offices, we advise clients to refrain from discussing the accusation with the accuser or law enforcement without an attorney present. This helps prevent any self-incriminating statements. Collecting and preserving any evidence that may support your side of the story is crucial. Records of communication, witnesses, and any other documentation can be invaluable. Our legal team will help guide you through these initial steps and begin crafting a defense strategy promptly.

How Can a Domestic Violence Charge Impact Employment?

A domestic violence charge can have serious implications for your employment, especially if it leads to a conviction. Many employers conduct background checks, and a conviction appearing on your record can inhibit job opportunities. Furthermore, certain fields, such as law enforcement or education, are particularly sensitive to such charges due to ethical and legal considerations. Losing professional licensure or security clearances is also a risk. At Plotnick Law Offices, we work diligently to minimize the professional impact of such charges, advising clients comprehensively about their rights and options.

Are There Defense Strategies Unique to St. Petersburg?

Yes, defense strategies tailored for St. Petersburg can offer specific advantages. An understanding of local law enforcement practices and local court expectations can be particularly beneficial. Strategies might involve questioning procedural missteps in the arrest process or investigating bias influences. Having attorneys familiar with local nuances gives clients a significant advantage, as we can anticipate probable avenues in defense and adapt our strategies to benefit from them. Using our regional knowledge, Plotnick Law Offices provides a defense rooted in local experience.

What Is the Difference Between a Restraining Order and a No Contact Order?

Restraining orders and no contact orders serve similar purposes but have differences in application. A restraining order, often initiated by an accuser, prohibits contact and may impose distance restrictions around specific locations. No contact orders are typically issued by the court following a charge and are non-negotiable terms of release conditions. Violating either type of order can result in serious legal consequences, including arrest. Understanding these differences can help individuals better comply with legal requirements and protect their rights. Our firm provides guidance regarding these orders, ensuring clients remain compliant and informed.

Can Domestic Violence Allegations Affect Immigration Status?

Yes, domestic violence allegations can severely affect immigration status. A conviction for domestic violence can be grounds for deportation, inadmissibility to the U.S., or denial of naturalization. Even allegations can lead to immigration officials scrutinizing your application status or eligibility. At Plotnick Law Offices, we recognize the gravity of these implications for non-citizen clients and provide knowledgeable guidance tailored to minimize risks. Our attorneys coordinate with immigration law professionals to safeguard your status and navigate any potential challenges arising from such accusations.

Continue Reading Read Less

Need Immediate Legal Assistance?

If you’re facing an urgent legal issue, reach out now, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible

First Name
Please enter your first name.
Last Name
Please enter your last name.
Phone
Please enter your phone number.

This isn't a valid phone number.
Email
Please enter your email address.

This isn't a valid email address.
Are you a new client?
Please make a selection.
How can we help you?
Please enter a message.
By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Plotnick Law Offices at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy