How a Domestic Battery Charge Can Affect Your Job, Custody Rights, and More From a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Clearwater

In Florida, domestic battery is defined as the intentional touching or striking of a family or household member against their will, or intentionally causing them bodily harm. This offense is taken extremely seriously, and even a first-time or misdemeanor domestic battery charge can lead to lasting, devastating consequences that extend far beyond the trial and courtroom.

If you have been charged with domestic battery, the most important step to take is to seek out a criminal defense lawyer in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.

Impact on Employment

A domestic battery arrest or conviction usually appears on background checks, which can affect both your current position, as well as any future job opportunities. Many employers view criminal charges, let alone those of domestic violence, as indicators of potential workplace violence or instability, regardless of whether there was a conviction. Because Florida is an at-will state, some employers have policies that allow for termination or suspension immediately after an arrest, even if the case is still pending and no conviction has occurred. Aside from needing to find employment, it means that you lose that stream of income, and will likely face financial repercussions because of it.

For licensed professionals such as nurses, teachers, healthcare workers, and real estate agents, a domestic battery charge may trigger mandatory reporting requirements and disciplinary action from licensing boards. In some cases, a license can be suspended or revoked, especially if you do not choose to work with a trusted criminal defense attorney in Clearwater with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan.

Impact on Child Custody

Domestic battery charges can also have a significant impact on child custody and visitation rights. In family court, judges often consider such charges when determining what arrangement is in the “best interests of the child.” Even without a conviction, the mere existence of a charge can negatively influence court decisions.

Temporary protective orders may be issued as part of a criminal case proceeding, which means that you would need to stay away from your children or the family home while the case is pending. If there is a finding of domestic violence, Florida law creates a presumption against shared custody, meaning you may face severe restrictions on parenting time or lose joint custody altogether.

Impact in Other Areas

The consequences of a domestic battery charge can also reach into other parts of your life. For non-citizens, violent charges, especially of domestic battery, can jeopardize immigration status, which can lead to your visa, green card, or naturalization being denied. In some cases, it can even lead to your removal from the United States of America. 

Work with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are facing a domestic battery charge in Pinellas County, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney in Clearwater who understands both the criminal and collateral consequences of these cases. We are prepared to work toward the most favorable outcome for your case, and our team has extensive experience in working with domestic cases, as well as violent cases, in Pinellas County.

Do not try and defend yourself if you have been charged with domestic battery. Receive a complimentary case consultation with a top Clearwater attorney by giving our office a call at (727) 291-9717.