An allegation can change your life very quickly, but being accused is not the same as being convicted. You deserve to have your side heard and your rights protected. At Filler & Hedum Family Law Firm, you work directly with Sam Filler and Kelly Hedum: two domestic violence defense attorneys in Oviedo who know this community and the legal system. We listen without judgment, give you straight answers, and stand beside you.
Domestic Violence in Oviedo: What You Need to Know
Under Florida law, domestic violence is not a single criminal charge. It includes offenses such as assault, battery, stalking, kidnapping, and false imprisonment when committed between family or household members. This can include spouses, former spouses, certain relatives, people who live or lived together as a family, and parents who share a child.
If you are accused, the consequences can reach well beyond the courtroom, potentially affecting your home, family relationships and employment. Florida also imposes specific consequences for certain domestic violence convictions. As your domestic violence defense attorney in Oviedo, we help you understand what you are facing and make sure your side is heard.
How We Help as Your Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys in Oviedo
When you come to Filler & Hedum, we start by listening to what happened from your perspective. Sam Filler and Kelly Hedum work directly with you to review the arrest report, witness accounts, photographs, messages, video footage, 911 calls, and available evidence. We examine how law enforcement handled the investigation, what the prosecution must prove, and whether the evidence supports or contradicts the allegations against you.
We also help you understand bond conditions, no-contact restrictions, upcoming hearings, and the decisions you may face while your case is pending. Drawing on Sam’s former prosecutorial experience and Kelly’s background as an Oviedo Detective Sergeant, we assess the case from multiple angles and develop a defense responsive to its specific facts. You get straightforward advice, direct access to your attorneys, and neighbors who are ready to stand beside you.
What Are the Types of Domestic Violence Charges in Oviedo?
Misdemeanor Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is not a separate criminal offense in Florida; instead, certain crimes are classified as domestic violence when they involve family or household members. Depending on the underlying offense, a misdemeanor may be punishable by up to 60 days or 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $500 or $1,000.
Misdemeanor domestic violence charges may include:
- Assault, generally a second-degree misdemeanor
- Battery, generally a first-degree misdemeanor
- Stalking, which may qualify as domestic violence when the statutory relationship requirements are met
The exact classification and potential penalties depend on the alleged conduct, the relationship involved, and other circumstances surrounding your case.
Felony Domestic Violence
More serious alleged conduct can result in felony charges. Depending on the offense and its degree, a felony can carry years of imprisonment and thousands of dollars in fines; for example, a third-degree felony is generally punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000, while a second-degree felony can carry up to 15 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
Felony domestic violence charges may include:
- Aggravated assault
- Felony battery
- Domestic battery by strangulation
- Aggravated battery
- Aggravated stalking
- False imprisonment
- Kidnapping
The charge can depend on factors such as the alleged injuries, use of a deadly weapon, strangulation, prior convictions, or the specific conduct alleged. Florida law also provides for reclassification to a higher offense level for certain domestic violence crimes when the accused has a prior domestic violence conviction.
Filler & Hedum: There When You Need ‘Em!
When you’re facing a domestic violence accusation, you need clear answers from attorneys who know both the legal system and the community you call home. At Filler & Hedum, you work directly with Sam Filler and Kelly Hedum: your domestic violence defense attorneys in Oviedo, not a revolving door of unfamiliar faces. We’re there when you need us. Contact us today for a free case evaluation with a domestic violence defense attorney.
