Tampa Domestic Violence Lawyer
Families are supposed to love and care for each other. Hitting someone or committing abuse against them in other ways is not only immoral but illegal.
This is called domestic violence. In Florida, this is defined as any assault, battery, and stalking that causes physical injury or death to a family or household member. These acts could be sexual or aggressive in nature. Whie victims are often spouses and children, domestic violence can also happen to intimate partners, parents and grandparents as well.
Domestic violence is a serious family law issue that can come with civil and criminal penalties. Westchase Law can help you understand your legal rights in such a sensitive situation. Contact our knowledgeable Tampa domestic violence lawyers to learn more.
Types of Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is not usually a one-time event, but it can be. It is more likely to appear as a pattern of abusive behaviors used to maintain power and control over intimate partners and other family members. People who engage in domestic violence will coerce, intimidate, threaten and frighten their victims as part of the abuse.
Domestic violence is not just hitting or other physical contact. It can happen in the following ways:
- Physical violence
- Sexual violence
- Emotional abuse
- Economic abuse
- Pet abuse
- Isolation
- Abuse and threats to children
Domestic violence can happen to anyone at any time and in all kinds of relationships. Abusers and victims can be found in all demographics, including all ages, genders, races, religions, genders, sexual orientations, marital status, and economic status. However most domestic violence is perpetrated by men, with women five times more likely than men to be victimized.
Protective Orders
A protective order is an official document issued by the court intended to protect a domestic violence victim from future violence by ordering the offender not to do certain things against the victim. Usually the intent is to prohibit contact, but if the offender and victim are married or live together, then things get more complicated. The protective order may remove the offender from the home, limit contact and custody of any children, order temporary financial support to the victim, and order certain counseling.
In Florida, there are four different types of protective orders that cover four different types of violence: domestic, dating, repeat, and sexual. A temporary order may be valid for 15 days, while a general order lasts for one year and can be extended for one-year periods once it expires.
Contact Westchase Law Today
Domestic violence often happens to women and children, but anyone can be a victim. These are dangerous situations that require victims to relocate before they get seriously injured or killed by their abusers.
If you have been a victim, seek legal help right away. Westchase Law can help you understand your options, including protective orders and civil lawsuits. To schedule a consultation, contact our Tampa domestic violence attorneys. Call our office today at 813-490-5211.
