Domestic Violence Attorney In Tampa, Florida
When A Loved One Accuses You Of Violence, We Take Up Your Cause
If someone close to you falsely accuses you of domestic violence, it can feel like a deep betrayal—especially when your freedom, reputation, and family relationships are at stake. Domestic violence allegations are taken very seriously in Florida, and prosecutors often pursue these cases aggressively. That can make it difficult to defend yourself without strong legal guidance.
Patrick Courtney represents individuals facing domestic violence charges in Tampa, Florida and works to protect their rights from the very beginning of the case. Whether the accusation involves a spouse, partner, or someone else in your household, Patrick carefully reviews the claims and looks for inconsistencies, exaggerations, or motives that may be driving the allegations.
While domestic violence is a serious issue, some cases arise out of emotionally charged situations—such as breakups, custody disputes, or family conflict—where accusations may be exaggerated or untrue. Patrick investigates the evidence, reviews witness statements, and challenges the prosecution’s case through effective legal strategy and courtroom advocacy.
If you’ve been accused of domestic violence in Tampa, don’t face the system alone. Contact Patrick B. Courtney, P.A. today to discuss your case and your options.
Call Patrick B. Courtney, P.A. at 813-705-9696 to schedule a consultation with a lawyer today.
What Constitutes Domestic Violence Under Florida Law?
Florida Statutes §741.28 define domestic violence as criminal offenses that result in the physical injury or death of a family member or member of a household. Actions named in this statute include assault, including aggravated assault; battery, including aggravated battery; kidnapping; false imprisonment; sexual assault; sexual battery; and stalking, including aggravated stalking.
Under this statute, household members include a spouse or former spouse, any person related by blood or marriage, persons who have lived together as a family in the past or present, and individuals who are the parents of a common child.
Florida’s criminal courts deal aggressively with all assault and battery crimes, but if one or both crimes are part of a domestic violence accusation and the defendant is convicted, the penalties will be even more severe. Working with an experienced domestic violence defense attorney can help guide you through the complex legal process of adjudicating domestic violence charges.
Does Florida Law Determines Who Is a Domestic Violence Victim?
Depending on the circumstances, domestic violence charges in Florida may be filed as either a misdemeanor or a felony. While misdemeanor charges are generally less severe, they can still lead to jail time, probation, fines, and a criminal record. In certain situations, prosecutors may pursue felony charges, which can carry far more serious penalties—including significant prison time and higher fines.
Beyond the immediate court consequences, a conviction can create long-term problems that follow you for years. That may include difficulty finding work, custody and visitation issues, restrictions on firearm ownership, housing problems, and other lasting impacts on your future.
If you’re facing domestic violence allegations in Tampa, Florida, don’t risk these consequences without legal help. Patrick Courtney can review your case, explain what you’re up against, and work to protect your rights at every step.
Common Domestic Violence Charges
Domestic violence is not a standalone crime — it enhances other criminal offenses. Common domestic violence-related charges include:
- Domestic Battery
- Aggravated Battery
- Assault
- Aggravated Assault
- Stalking
- Aggravated Stalking
- False Imprisonment
- Kidnapping
- Sexual Battery
Even a misdemeanor domestic battery conviction can have serious long-term consequences.
Penalties for a Domestic Violence Conviction
A domestic violence conviction in Florida can result in:
- Jail or prison time
- Significant fines
- 12 months of probation (or more for felony charges)
- Mandatory completion of a Batterer’s Intervention Program (BIP)
- Community service
- No-contact orders
- Loss of firearm and ammunition rights
- Difficulty securing employment or housing
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
Judges are not permitted to withhold adjudication in many domestic violence cases. That means a conviction may stay on your permanent record.
The stakes are high — even for first-time offenders.
Domestic Violence Injunctions (Restraining Orders)
In addition to criminal charges, you may also face a domestic violence injunction (restraining order).
An injunction can:
- Force you to move out of your home
- Prevent you from contacting the alleged victim
- Restrict access to your children
- Require you to surrender firearms
- Appear in background checks
A temporary injunction can be issued quickly — sometimes without you present. However, you have the right to contest it at a final hearing.
Violating an injunction is a separate criminal offense that can result in additional jail time.
It is critical to have an attorney represent you at your injunction hearing to protect your rights and your future.
What to Do If You Are Arrested for Domestic Violence
If you are arrested:
- Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney
- Do not contact the alleged victim if a no-contact order is in place
- Do not post about the incident on social media
- Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately

Anything you say can be used against you — even text messages sent in an attempt to “clear things up.”
How We Defend Domestic Violence Cases
Every case is different. We thoroughly investigate the facts and develop a defense strategy tailored to your situation.
Defense strategies may include:
- Challenging inconsistent statements
- Exposing false or exaggerated allegations
- Identifying lack of evidence
- Presenting self-defense arguments
- Negotiating reduced charges
- Seeking dismissal where appropriate
- Aggressively defending you at trial
In many domestic disputes, emotions run high and accusations are made in the heat of the moment. We work to uncover the full story and protect your rights at every stage of the case.
False Allegations of Domestic Violence
Unfortunately, false allegations do occur — particularly during divorces, custody disputes, or highly emotional breakups.
Even if the accusations are untrue, you can still be arrested and prosecuted. Law enforcement officers often make an arrest if they see any sign of physical injury.
We understand how damaging false accusations can be. Our goal is to expose inconsistencies, highlight motives to fabricate, and fight to protect your reputation and freedom.
Why You Need an Experienced Domestic Violence Defense Attorney
Domestic violence cases move quickly. Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
An experienced attorney can:
- Protect your constitutional rights
- Represent you at injunction hearings
- Negotiate with prosecutors
- Work to avoid a permanent conviction
- Prepare a strong defense for trial if necessary
Attempting to handle a domestic violence case without legal representation can lead to life-changing consequences.
Your freedom, your family relationships, and your future are too important to leave to chance.
Speak With a Tampa Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Today
If you have been arrested for domestic violence or served with an injunction, do not wait. The sooner you involve an attorney, the more options may be available to you. Contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you fight your domestic violence charges.
Have Questions About Criminal Charges?
Call Patrick B. Courtney, P.A. at 813-705-9696 today to speak with an attorney, discuss the details of your situation, and learn what legal options may be available to protect your rights.