Domestic Violence Lawyer in Sarasota

Trusted Defense for Domestic Violence Charges in Sarasota County, FL

At The Miller Law Firm, P.A., we understand that being accused of domestic violence can turn your life upside down. These charges carry serious consequences – both legal and personal – and even an allegation can damage your reputation, career, and relationships. Led by experienced criminal defense attorney Scott Miller, our firm brings nearly 30 years of courtroom experience and a unique perspective as a former prosecutor to help you fight back. 

From the moment charges are filed, or even before, we move quickly to protect your rights and begin building a strong defense. Whether you're facing a misdemeanor battery charge or a felony domestic assault accusation in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court, we provide strategic, aggressive representation tailored to the specific facts of your case.

If are under investigation or have been charged with domestic violence in Sarasota, call (941) 275-2489 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation. We're available 24/7 to advocate for your rights.

What Actions are Considered Domestic Violence in Florida?

In Florida, domestic violence charges are defined under Florida Statute § 741.28. These offenses must involve a specific type of relationship – usually spouses, former spouses, co-parents, relatives by blood or marriage, or individual who live together or have lived together as a family.

Common domestic violence charges we defend for clients throughout Sarasota County include:

• Domestic Battery - The most commonly charged offense; involves intentionally striking or touching a family or household member against their will.
• Aggravated Battery - Battery involving a deadly weapon or causing serious bodily injury; often charged as a felony.
• Domestic Assault / Aggravated Assault - Verbal or physical threats that cause a person to fear imminent harm; enhanced to aggravated if a weapon is involved. 
• Stalking or Cyberstalking - Repeated harassment of threats, including through text or social media.
• False Imprisonment - Preventing someone from leaving a location, even without physical violence.

Domestic violence charges may be filed as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the severity of the alleged conduct, whether weapons were involved, and whether there are prior offenses. Even a first offense can carry serious consequences – which is why it's essential to have a Sarasota domestic violence lawyer who knows how to challenge the prosecution's case at every level. 

What Are the Penalties for Domestic Violence in Sarasota?

In Florida, a conviction for domestic violence can lead to serious, lasting consequences – both in the courtroom and in your personal life. Even a first-time misdemeanor offense can result in jail time, significant fines, and long-term repercussions that impact your relationships, your reputation, and your future opportunities. 

Under Florida Statute § 741.283, a conviction for a domestic violence offense involving bodily harm carries mandatory minimum penalties. This includes a minimum of 10 days in the county jail, even for a first offense. Beyond this mandatory minimum, criminal penalties vary. A misdemeanor battery conviction may carry up to one year in jail, while felony offenses such as aggravated battery or assault with a weapon can result in prison terms of up to five years or more. The court may also impose substantial fines, probation, or community service as part of sentencing. 

Florida law also requires mandatory participation in a Batterer's Intervention Program (BIP), a court-approved counseling course that can last up to six months or more. Convicted individuals will lose their right to possess or carry firearms and may be subject to long-term protective injunctions, which can restrict access to their own home, children, or workplace. 

Additionally, a domestic violence conviction cannot be sealed or expunged under Florida law if there was an adjudication of guilt. This means the record will remain accessible to future employers, landlords, licensing boards, and others – often resulting in denied job opportunities, housing applications, and professional certifications. Conviction can also impact ongoing or future family law proceedings, such as divorce or child custody disputes.

Beyond the courtroom, the social and emotional fallout of conviction is often just as sever. The stigma alone can affect your standing in the community, your relationships, and your mental health. That's why it's critical to have an experienced Sarasota domestic violence lawyer by your side, ready to fight for the best possible outcome from the beginning.

What Should I Do If I Am Accused of Domestic Violence?

Being charged with domestic violence in Sarasota can be a frightening and disorienting experience – but how you respond in the early stages can significantly impact your case. The most important step is to contact a qualified domestic violence attorney as soon as possible. Early legal intervention helps protect your rights, prevent critical missteps, and lay the groundwork for an effective defense. 

You should also take care to follow any temporary restraining orders, no-contact orders, or court-issued conditions without exception. Violating such terms can lead to additional charges and weaken your defense. It's equally important to avoid any direct communication with the alleged victim – even if well-intentioned – as these interactions can be misinterpreted or used against you in court.

As your attorneys, The Miller Law Firm, P.A. can also advise you on preserving evidence and documenting key information. This may include saving relevant text messages, emails, call logs, or any witness statements that support your version of events. With the right legal representation, this documentation can form the backbone of a strong defense strategy.

How We Build a Winning Defense Strategy for Domestic Violence Charges

Every domestic violence case is different, and building a strong defense starts with understanding the facts and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution's claims. At The Miller Law Firm, P.A., we approach each case strategically and aggressively, with the goal of minimizing, or eliminating, the impact on your life. 

Some of the defense strategies we may pursue include:

• Challenging the credibility of the accuser, especially when there are inconsistent statements or evidence of ulterior motives, such as custody disputes or relationship breakdowns.
• Investigating potential self-defense claims, particularly in cases involving mutual confrontation or where physical contact was necessary to prevent harm. 
• Examining the legality of your arrest, including whether law enforcement followed proper procedures and respected your constitutional rights.
• Analyzing physical and digital evidence, such as surveillance footage, text messages, phone records, or social media interactions, which may support your side of the story. 
• Seeking pre-trial resolutions, such as having charges dismissed due to lack of evidence, or negotiating for reduced charges through plea agreements or diversionary programs like anger management and counseling.

Because Scott Miller is a former Florida prosecutor, he understands how cases are built from the inside out, and how to dismantle them. Whether we're working toward a negotiated outcome or preparing for trial, our goal is always the same: to secure the most favorable resolution possible while protecting your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact a Sarasota Defense Lawyer Today

If you are facing a domestic violence allegation, your reputation and your freedom are on the line. Do not wait for the prosecution to build its case against you. The time to act is now. 

We can help you understand the legal challenges ahead and begin building a customized defense strategy to protect your rights, your record, and your future. At The Miller Law Firm, P.A., our goal is not only to defend you in court, but to help you move forward – informed, supported, and empowered. With an experienced advocate by your side, you'll have someone committed to helping you regain control of your life and reputation.

Don't face these serious charges alone; take the first step toward protecting your rights and your future today. Call our office at (941) 275-2489 or fill out our secure online contact form to schedule your confidential consultation.