Facing Domestic Violence Charges in Orlando?
Protect Your Rights, Reputation, and Future
Experienced Defense Against Domestic Battery & Related Offenses
Request a Confidential ConsultationUnderstanding Domestic Violence Charges in Florida
What Constitutes Domestic Violence?
Under Florida Statute 741.28, "Domestic Violence" means any assault, aggravated assault, battery, aggravated battery, sexual assault, sexual battery, stalking, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal offense resulting in physical injury or death of one family or household member by another family or household member.
Key Aspects of Florida DV Law:
- Applies to spouses, former spouses, persons related by blood or marriage, persons living together as a family (or who have), and parents of a child in common.
- Most common charge is Domestic Battery (intentionally touching or striking against the will, or causing bodily harm).
- Arrests are often mandatory if police find probable cause, even if the alleged victim recants.
- Special conditions like No Contact Orders are typically imposed immediately after arrest.
These cases are complex and carry significant social and legal stigma. Understanding the specific allegations and legal definitions is the first step in building a defense.
Discuss Your Specific Charges →Common Defense Strategies for Domestic Violence
An accusation is not a conviction. Many defenses can be raised against domestic violence charges, focusing on the facts, evidence, and motivations involved.
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Self-Defense / Defense of Others: You may have acted reasonably to protect yourself or someone else from imminent harm. We analyze the situation to determine if the force used was justified.
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False Accusations / Ulterior Motives: Allegations may be fabricated or exaggerated due to anger, jealousy, or attempts to gain leverage in divorce or child custody disputes. We investigate the accuser's credibility and potential motives.
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Lack of Intent / Accident: Battery requires intentional touching. If contact was accidental or unintentional during a non-violent interaction, it may not meet the legal standard for battery.
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Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. We challenge inconsistent witness statements, lack of physical evidence, and contradictions in the alleged victim's story.
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Violation of Constitutional Rights: Were you questioned without Miranda warnings? Was evidence obtained through an illegal search? Violations of your rights can lead to suppression of evidence.
Potential Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
Beyond jail and fines, a domestic violence conviction triggers unique and severe penalties under Florida law.
Mandatory Jail Time
Even for a first offense misdemeanor DV battery conviction, Florida law mandates minimum jail time (typically 5 days if injury occurred).
Batterer's Intervention Program (BIP)
Mandatory completion of a lengthy (26+ weeks) and costly BIP counseling program.
Loss of Firearm Rights
A DV conviction prohibits you from possessing firearms or ammunition under both Florida and Federal law.
Injunctions & Other Impacts
Likely issuance of a long-term injunction (restraining order), impact on child custody, employment, and housing.
Meet Our Dedicated Defense Team

Jeff Lotter
Attorney | Founder
An experienced Orlando attorney, Jeff brings more than two decades of front-line law enforcement and legal experience to every case. As a former Florida State Trooper and Deputy Sheriff, he offers clients a powerful advantage: insider knowledge of police procedures and prosecution strategies. Now solely dedicated to criminal defense, Jeff—a Military Veteran—approaches the courtroom as a battlefield. You, the client, are the General; Jeff is the battlefield commander executing your mission. Grounded in his Christian faith and committed to protecting freedom, Jeff sees every case as an opportunity to push back against government overreach and defend the individual against unjust intrusion. Married for over 20 years with two children, he brings the same unwavering dedication to protecting your rights as he does to his own family.
Stacy Sanchez
Senior Legal Assistant
Since beginning her legal career in 2014, Stacy has brought unwavering dedication to the field of criminal defense. She joined Lotter Law in 2021 and has since become an integral part of the team, known for her reliability, compassion, and sharp attention to detail. Originally from New York and raised in Orlando, Stacy blends tenacity with a warm, client-centered approach. Driven by a deep desire to help others, she believes every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect—especially during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Her strong family values guide her empathetic communication and relentless work ethic. With over a decade of experience and a genuine passion for criminal defense, Stacy continues to make a meaningful impact every day at Lotter Law.
Marissa Rodriguez
Legal Assistant
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Visit Our Office
Law Office of Jeff Lotter PLLC
200 E Robinson St Suite 1140
Orlando, FL 32801
Serving Central Florida, including Orange County.
Get DirectionsAccused of Domestic Violence? Act Quickly.
The stakes are high. Contact Lotter Law immediately for a free, confidential consultation to start building your defense.
Or, reach us directly:
Law Office of Jeff Lotter PLLC | 200 E Robinson St Suite 1140, Orlando, FL 32801