Jacksonville Domestic Violence Lawyer
Expert Attorneys Defending Your Rights in Florida Domestic Violence Cases
At Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite, we represent individuals facing domestic violence charges as well as those seeking protection through the legal system. We understand how fast these cases move and how serious the consequences can be, especially when abuse or false accusations are involved.
Our attorneys also represent victims who need help securing a domestic violence injunction or navigating related custody and support issues.
Whether you’ve been accused or harmed by a family or household member, we’ll work quickly to protect your rights and your future.
Clients across Duval and Clay Counties trust us as their Jacksonville domestic violence lawyers when everything is on the line. Call (904) 619-1386 to speak confidentially with a qualified attorney today.
Domestic Violence Hotline
If you’re experiencing abuse or domestic violence, help is available 24/7. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support. Your safety matters – don’t wait to get support. All calls are free and help is available in multiple languages.
Domestic Violence Charges in Florida
Florida takes domestic violence allegations seriously, and a single accusation can trigger immediate legal action. Charges may be filed even without visible injuries or a victim’s cooperation.
If you’re facing accusations, it’s important to understand what qualifies as domestic violence and how Florida law applies. Our team works with clients at every stage – whether you’re under investigation or already charged. We also help individuals understand the long-term consequences of a conviction, including loss of rights, jail time, and impact on child custody.
Knowing your rights early can make all the difference.
What is Considered Domestic Violence?
Florida Statute § 741.28 defines domestic violence as assault, battery, sexual violence, stalking, kidnapping, or false imprisonment involving family or household members.
Who Qualifies as a Household Member?
A household member can be a spouse, former spouse, relative by blood or marriage, co-parent, or anyone who currently lives or previously lived together as a family unit.
Mandatory Arrests and Law Enforcement Protocol
Florida law requires police to act quickly during domestic violence calls. They are instructed to arrest the primary aggressor whenever possible, even if the victim does not wish to press charges.
Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
A domestic violence conviction in Florida carries serious and lasting consequences. Even for first-time offenders, the law requires mandatory penalties including jail time, fines, and completion of a 26-week batterers intervention program.
Beyond the criminal penalties, a conviction can affect nearly every part of your life. You may lose your right to own or carry firearms, face restrictions on child custody or visitation, and experience difficulty with employment and housing.
For non-citizens, a domestic violence conviction can lead to immigration consequences such as deportation. It’s also important to know that these charges cannot be sealed or expunged under Florida law.
Given the stakes, it’s critical to take swift action and build a strong defense from the start.
What to Do If You’re Accused of Domestic Violence
Being accused of domestic violence in Florida is serious, and how you respond matters. A conviction can affect your freedom, reputation, family rights, and future opportunities.
Even if the accusation feels unfair or exaggerated, your best move is to stay calm and take immediate legal steps. At Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite, we guide you through the process from day one – protecting your rights and helping you build a strong defense.
Don’t Wait to Call a Lawyer
The sooner you get a defense attorney involved, the better your chances of avoiding formal charges or negotiating reduced consequences. Call our Jacksonville domestic violence lawyers at (904) 619-1386 to discuss your case confidentially.
Do Not Contact the Alleged Victim
Reaching out can violate a no-contact order and result in new criminal charges – even if the other person initiates contact.
Gather Evidence and Witnesses
Save texts, emails, call logs, and identify any witnesses who can confirm your version of events. This evidence can be critical to your defense.
Why Trust Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite
At Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite, we know firsthand that domestic violence cases are often complicated and emotional.
Whether you’re seeking protection or facing serious charges, our attorneys approach every case with skill, focus, and compassion.
We have handled both sides of domestic violence cases and know how to navigate the legal system in Duval, St. Johns, and Clay Counties.
From the first consultation to the final hearing, we work to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome. Call (904) 619-1386 now to speak with a Jacksonville domestic violence lawyer who’s ready to help.
Types of Criminal Cases We Handle
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Defense ➔
Legal Defenses We May Use
Every domestic violence case is different, and the right defense depends on the facts. At Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite, we examine every detail to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and protect your rights. We’re experienced in raising strong legal defenses and challenging flawed evidence in court. From false accusations to police mistakes, we’ll look at every angle to build the best possible defense.
Self-Defense or Defense of Others
If the alleged victim was actually the aggressor, we may argue that your actions were legally justified under Florida law.
Lack of Evidence or False Allegations
Some cases rely solely on accusations without physical evidence or witnesses, which can raise serious doubt in court.
Procedural Errors & Rights Violations
If your rights were violated – such as a bad arrest or missing Miranda warning – we may seek to have key evidence excluded.
Injunctions and Protective Orders
Protective orders, also known as injunctions, are legal tools used to prevent contact in domestic violence cases. They carry serious consequences and should never be taken lightly.
We represent clients on both sides of injunction cases. Whether you’re defending against one or need to file for protection, we’ll guide you through the process.
Temporary & Permanent Injunctions
Florida courts can issue temporary or permanent injunctions that restrict contact, limit access to a shared residence, and affect child custody. These orders can be put in place quickly, sometimes without a full hearing.
Violations of Orders
Violating an injunction is a criminal offense and may result in jail time, fines, or additional charges. Even unintentional contact, like a text message, can trigger enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence in Florida
What counts as domestic violence in Florida?
Florida law defines domestic violence as assault, battery, stalking, kidnapping, or any crime resulting in physical harm between family or household members.
Can I be arrested even if no violence occurred?
Yes. If police believe threats, intimidation, or unlawful contact occurred, they can make an arrest – even without physical injury.
Will the charges be dropped if the alleged victim changes their mind?
Not necessarily. The State of Florida can continue to prosecute the case, even if the victim no longer wants to press charges.
How long will a domestic violence charge stay on my record?
If convicted, it stays on your record permanently. Florida law does not allow domestic violence convictions to be sealed or expunged.
Can a domestic violence injunction affect child custody?
Yes. Courts may limit or restrict custody and visitation based on the presence of a domestic violence injunction.
Contact Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite
Facing a domestic violence case is overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle it alone. We offer skilled, local legal representation to protect your rights and guide you through every step.
We represent clients across Duval, Clay, and nearby counties, combining local knowledge with focused legal strategy when it matters most.
Call now to speak confidentially with a Jacksonville domestic violence lawyer who takes your situation seriously and responds with urgency.