Defending Against Battery Charges in Florida

Being charged with battery in Florida is a serious matter that can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you or a loved one is facing battery charges, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the law and can fight to protect your rights. At Stone & Capobianco, our criminal defense lawyers have extensive experience handling battery cases and can provide the aggressive defense you need.

What is Battery Under Florida Law?

Under Florida Statute 784.03, battery occurs when a person:
✔ Intentionally touches or strikes another person against their will
✔ Intentionally causes bodily harm to another person

Unlike assault, which involves a threat of harm, battery requires actual physical contact. The severity of a battery charge depends on the circumstances of the case, the severity of the injuries, and whether the defendant has prior convictions.

Types of Battery Charges in Florida

✔ Simple Battery (Misdemeanor Battery) – A first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail, 1 year of probation, and a $1,000 fine.
✔ Felony Battery – If the defendant has a prior battery conviction or if the victim suffers serious bodily injury, the charge becomes a third-degree felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison.
✔ Aggravated Battery – If the battery involved a deadly weapon or caused great bodily harm, it becomes a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
✔ Domestic Battery – Battery against a spouse, partner, or family member can lead to enhanced penalties under domestic violence laws.

Potential Defenses to Battery Charges

At Stone & Capobianco, our experienced criminal defense attorneys analyze each case thoroughly to determine the best defense strategy. Common defenses to battery charges include:

✔ Self-Defense – If you were protecting yourself from harm, your attorney can argue justifiable self-defense.
✔ Defense of Others – If you acted to protect another person from harm, this could serve as a valid defense.
✔ Consent – If both parties agreed to physical contact (such as in mutual combat or sports-related incidents), this could be a defense.
✔ False Accusations – Many battery cases arise from false allegations, especially in domestic disputes. Your attorney can challenge the credibility of the accuser.
✔ Lack of Intent – If the physical contact was accidental and not intentional, it may not qualify as battery under Florida law.

Why You Need a Skilled Battery Defense Attorney

A battery conviction can have lasting consequences, including jail time, probation, a criminal record, and loss of firearm rights. If you are convicted of domestic battery, you may also face restraining orders, loss of child custody rights, and damage to your reputation. That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side.

At Stone & Capobianco, we understand the complexities of battery charges and work tirelessly to protect your rights. Whether we negotiate for a reduced charge, fight for a case dismissal, or defend you in court, our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact a Florida Battery Defense Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been charged with battery in Florida, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Contact the skilled criminal defense attorneys at Stone & Capobianco for a free case consultation today.

📞 Call (772) 781-4357 or visit www.stonelawfl.com to discuss your case. We specialize in all types of Criminal Defense law, including battery, aggravated assault, domestic violence, DUI, drug crimes, and more.