It is a rare couple who has never had an argument. In fact, some couples seem to thrive on knock-down, drag-out fights. But when does a dispute become abuse in the eyes of the law? If your partner is accusing you of domestic violence after a mutual disagreement, this is an important question to answer. If the police have been called, your first move should be to hire a Florida domestic violence attorney. These are serious charges, and you will need to mount a defense right away, even if your partner later changes her mind and refuses to press charges.
How Do You Defend Yourself Against a Domestic Violence Accusation?
It may seem like there’s a fine line between a physical fight and domestic abuse, but an experienced defense attorney will be able to make the distinction. True cases of domestic violence usually involve one or more of the following:
A Pattern Of Abuse
In cases of domestic violence, the abuse is ongoing and relentless, not just an occasional fight. There may have been several reports by the victim or medical evidence that the victim has been hurt frequently.
No Give And Take
Domestic abuse is a one-way street. Arguments are not back-and-forth debates, but one partner attacking the other.
Coercion And Manipulation
When a partner uses violence or threats of violence to get the victim to do certain things or act a certain way, that is a sign of domestic abuse.
Fear
The goal of an abuser is to instill fear in his or her partner. In an ordinary argument, neither partner fears the reaction of the other. When a victim changes her behavior to avoid a reaction, she is living in fear.
Emotional Abuse
Domestic violence does not have to involve a physical assault. Belittling, criticizing, threatening, and embarrassing a partner are considered emotional abuse. Saying a few mean things during an argument does not constitute emotional abuse.
When the police are called during a domestic dispute, they will want to make an arrest. If your partner tells the police that you were the aggressor or that it has happened before, that may be enough for them to charge you with domestic violence.
Have You Been Accused Of Domestic Violence In Florida?
You and your partner may not be at a good point in your relationship right now, but if your partner takes that a step further by accusing you of domestic violence, you need to fight back to protect your freedom. If you are frustrated about a domestic violence charge that is disrupting your life you need to speak with an experienced domestic violence defense attorney as soon as possible. Contact me online or call my Miami office directly at 305.707.7345.
I also recommend that you download a free copy of our special report "He Said, She Said: Three Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Domestic Violence Case In Florida". The sooner we talk, the sooner we will be able to help you fight the charges that could change your life forever.
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