Boca Raton Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Last updated on May 26, 2026

The court takes domestic violence allegations seriously, even in situations where actual violence may not have occurred. Facing such allegations can be overwhelming and frightening for anyone involved. If you are involved in a domestic violence dispute, The Rudman Law Group in Boca Raton can help. The team brings hands-on experience and trial advocacy to zealously protect clients involved in domestic violence situations throughout South Florida.

Protect your rights by contacting an experienced criminal defense lawyer at 561-593-2366 or 888-870-7457 toll-free for a free initial consultation. The Rudman Law Group represents individuals facing domestic violence charges in Broward County and Palm Beach County, including those arrested in Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach and surrounding areas.

Table Of Contents

• How Is Domestic Violence Defined Under Florida Law
• Common Domestic Violence Charges In Florida
• Defending Against Domestic Violence Accusations
• Why Choose The Rudman Law Group For Domestic Violence Defense
• Orders Of Protection In Florida

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How Is Domestic Violence Defined Under Florida Law

Florida law (Statute §741.28) defines domestic violence as any harmful act committed by one family or household member against another. This includes assault, battery, sexual assault, stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any crime that causes physical injury or death. This applies to people who live together as a family or previously lived together, as well as those who share a child.

The state takes domestic violence accusations extremely seriously. A conviction can result in severe consequences, including:

• Jail or prison time
• Substantial fines
• Mandatory batterer’s intervention programs
• Loss of firearm rights
• Permanent criminal record
• Immigration consequences for noncitizens
• Impact on child custody and visitation rights
• Difficulty securing employment or housing

The personal and professional repercussions of these charges can follow you for years. This is why securing experienced legal representation is crucial from the moment allegations arise. Early intervention by a skilled domestic violence defense attorney can often make the difference between a case being filed or dismissed.

Common Domestic Violence Charges In Florida

The Rudman Law Group defends clients against a wide range of domestic violence charges in Florida. These charges vary in severity, but all carry significant legal consequences that can impact your freedom, family relationships and future.

Here are the most common charges the firm handles:

• Partner assault (Simple Assault): Florida Statute §784.011 defines this as threatening someone in a way that makes them reasonably fear immediate violence. Penalties include up to one year in jail, one year of probation and a $1,000 fine.
• Aggravated assault: Under Florida Statute §784.021, this is threatening someone with a deadly weapon or with intent to commit another serious crime. As a third-degree felony, it can result in up to five years in prison, five years of probation and a $5,000 fine.
• Battery: Florida Statute §784.03 covers actually touching or striking someone against their will or causing them bodily harm. This can mean up to one year in jail. Domestic battery cases have mandatory minimum penalties.
• Sexual battery: Florida Statute §794.011 covers nonconsensual sexual penetration. Penalties are severe, ranging from 15 years to life in prison, depending on the circumstances.
• Kidnapping: Florida Statute §787.01 defines this as holding someone against their will by force, threat or secretly taking them. This serious felony can result in life imprisonment.
• False imprisonment: Under Florida Statute §787.02, this means restraining someone without legal right and against their will. Penalties include up to five years in prison, five years of probation and a $5,000 fine.
• Child abuse or neglect: Florida Statute §827.03 covers hurting a child physically or mentally, or doing something likely to cause such harm. Penalties range from five to 30 years in prison, depending on severity.
• Stalking: Florida Statute §784.048 defines this as repeatedly following, harassing or cyberstalking someone. Basic stalking can mean up to one year in jail, while aggravated stalking can result in up to five years in prison.
• Violating protective orders: Breaking a domestic violence injunction (Florida Statute §741.31) can mean up to one year in jail for first offenses, with repeat violations potentially becoming felonies with harsher penalties.

The team at The Rudman Law Group pursues justice with the goal of preserving family relationships whenever possible. They will also work with you to explore alternative sentencing, including anger management, mental health counseling and substance abuse prevention programs.

Our Domestic Violence Case Results

Attorney Douglas Rudman has a proven track record of successfully defending clients facing domestic violence allegations. His in-depth understanding of the law and his strategic approach to each case have led to favorable outcomes for many individuals. Below are a few examples of The Rudman Law Group‘s successful domestic violence defense results:

• Result: No Charges Filed
  Client arrested for child abuse after an altercation while disciplining a minor. Mr. Rudman demonstrated it was parental discipline, not abuse, leading to a “No File” from the State of Florida.
• Result: No Charges Filed
  Client arrested for domestic battery after a heated discussion with parents escalated. Police report mischaracterized events. Mr. Rudman presented a complete statement, resulting in a “No File” from the State of Florida.
• Result: Charges Dismissed
  Client arrested after an altercation with his girlfriend involving a knife, where she alleged battery. The firm found a lack of physical evidence and harassing calls from the alleged victim, leading to a “nolle prosse” and record expungement.

Defending Against Domestic Violence Accusations

The Rudman Law Group employs a comprehensive approach to defending clients accused of domestic violence.

Thorough Investigation

The firm conducts detailed investigations into the allegations, including:

• Interviewing witnesses
• Reviewing police reports
• Examining medical records
• Analyzing any available audio, video or photographic evidence

This thorough approach often uncovers inconsistencies or alternative explanations that can weaken the prosecution’s case.

Strategic Evidence Challenges

The legal team meticulously examines how evidence was collected and whether proper procedures were followed. They frequently file motions to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully or in violation of constitutional rights.

Powerful Defense Strategies

Depending on the circumstances, the firm may employ various defense strategies, including:

• Self-defense or defense of others
• Lack of intent to cause harm
• False accusations motivated by revenge, child custody disputes or other factors
• Alibi defense
• Mistaken identity
• Mutual combat situations

Every case is unique, and The Rudman Law Group tailors defense strategies to the specific circumstances of each client’s situation, ensuring the most effective approach for their particular case.

Negotiation Skills

When appropriate, the attorney negotiates with prosecutors to reduce charges or pursue alternative resolutions such as:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Deferred prosecution agreements
• Reduced charges
• Probation instead of incarceration
• Treatment-based alternatives, including counseling or anger management

The firm’s reputation and relationships within the legal community often facilitate more favorable negotiation outcomes than clients might achieve on their own.

Trial Advocacy

If a favorable resolution cannot be reached through negotiation, The Rudman Law Group‘s experienced trial attorney is fully prepared to defend clients in court, challenging the prosecution’s case and presenting compelling evidence to support the defense.

With decades of courtroom experience, the firm’s attorney is skilled at presenting persuasive arguments to judges and juries, giving clients the strongest possible defense when their case goes to trial.

Why Choose The Rudman Law Group For Domestic Violence Defense

The Rudman Law Group stands apart in domestic violence defense for several compelling reasons:

• Dedicated Experience: The firm focuses specifically on criminal defense with extensive experience in domestic violence cases, understanding the unique legal and emotional dynamics involved.
• A Former Prosecutor On The Team: The firm’s founding attorney is a former prosecutor who understands how the state builds cases and can anticipate prosecution strategies.
• Personalized Attention: Unlike large firms where clients become case numbers, The Rudman Law Group provides individualized attention, with the attorney personally handling every aspect of each case.
• Proven Results: The Rudman Law Group has a strong track record of achieving favorable outcomes in domestic violence cases, including case dismissals, reduced charges and acquittals at trial.

Orders Of Protection In Florida

In addition to defending those accused of domestic violence, The Rudman Law Group recognizes that domestic conflicts affect everyone involved. The firm also assists victims of domestic violence in filing orders of protection against violent family members.

Fear should not hold anyone back from taking steps to protect themselves. The firm can help investigate claims of domestic violence and possibly pursue criminal charges against those who have caused harm.

It is important to remember that filing false claims can result in charges of perjury or lying to the police. The firm helps ensure that each case is robust and well-founded.

In many cases, taking the simple step to obtain a protective order is enough to ensure a family’s safety. As an advocate, the team at The Rudman Law Group helps clients explore all options to remove the threat of violence from their homes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Domestic Violence Defense

Domestic violence allegations in Florida move quickly and can create immediate consequences. The answers to frequent questions can illuminate your situation.

Can domestic violence charges be dropped in Florida?

A domestic violence charge may be dismissed in some situations, but the State Attorney, not the alleged victim, makes the decision. Prosecutors review the evidence independently and may continue the case even if the accuser seeks to have it dropped. A recantation can be considered, but prosecutors often require proof such as witness statements, physical evidence or recorded communications. 

Charges may be dismissed when the evidence is insufficient, when the facts do not meet the legal definition of the offense, or when the alleged victim is unwilling to participate and the state cannot proceed without their testimony. Some individuals may also qualify for diversion programs that can lead to dismissal if all requirements are completed.

I was served with a temporary injunction. Can I go home to get my things?

A temporary injunction generally prohibits any contact with the petitioner and often bars you from returning to the shared residence until the court holds a full hearing. Violating the order, even briefly or unintentionally, can result in a separate criminal charge. Since injunctions are often issued quickly and without your input, Florida courts allow individuals to retrieve property, but only through a law enforcement standby. 

This means you must arrange for an officer to accompany you so the retrieval occurs safely and without violating the injunction. The process is limited in time and scope, making it important to plan ahead and take only necessary items.

Will a domestic violence arrest affect my right to own a gun even if I am not convicted yet?

Yes, a domestic violence arrest can impact your firearm rights before any conviction occurs. Florida law requires the temporary suspension of a concealed weapon license while a domestic violence case is pending. In addition, a temporary or final injunction typically prohibits possession of firearms or ammunition for the duration of the order. 

These restrictions do not require a finding of guilt and apply even when a domestic violence case has not been resolved. Federal law imposes additional consequences after a conviction, but pretrial limitations come from state law and the terms of any injunction issued by the court.

Contact The Firm For A Free Initial Consultation

The Rudman Law Group understands that domestic violence charges are highly personal and emotionally complex. The defense team provides strong, honest and dedicated counsel aimed at helping clients move forward. Contact the firm office online or by calling 561-593-2366 or 888-870-7457 toll-free today.

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