Federal Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers In Miami
Experienced Defense Attorneys Fighting For Your Best Interests
Most domestic violence cases are handled by local authorities, but there are some situations where federal agencies and prosecutors may become involved. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) of 1994 and subsequent additions to the act recognize domestic violence as a national crime and allow for the involvement of federal resources to help overburdened local and state criminal justice systems. Most often, federal domestic violence charges involved crossed state lines or national borders, or violations of the federal Gun Control Act.
If you have been accused of harming or attempting to harm a spouse, ex-spouse, romantic partner, family member, or other person protected by domestic violence laws, our experienced team is here to help. Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, serves clients across Miami-Dade County who have been accused of committing domestic abuse. This includes federal domestic violence charges, which require the unique skills and experience possessed by our federal defense lawyers.
To learn more, call 305-564-4329. Your initial consultation with our Miami federal domestic violence attorneys is free and confidential.
Federal Domestic Violence Laws
When will domestic violence be charged as a federal crime? This may occur in the following scenarios:
- Possession of a firearm/ammunition in violation of a Protection Order: 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(8).
- Possession of a firearm/ammunition after a qualifying misdemeanor domestic violence conviction: 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9).
- Crossing state lines or foreign borders to commit or attempt to commit domestic violence: 18 U.S.C. §2261.
- Crossing state lines or national borders to violate a Protection Order: 18 U.S.C. §2262.
- Cyberstalking, or stalking/harassment by mail: 18 U.S.C. §2261A.
Qualifying Domestic Violence Misdemeanors
The U.S. Attorney’s Office may pursue federal charges against you if you are accused of possessing a firearm or ammunition after a “qualifying” misdemeanor domestic violence conviction, which may include domestic violence using physical force or threatened use of a deadly weapon.
The penalty for possessing a firearm or ammunition in violation of a Protection Order or after a qualifying misdemeanor domestic violence conviction is a maximum of 10 years in prison.
Penalties For VAWA Violations
If you are convicted of federal domestic violence under VAWA, you may face a maximum federal prison sentence of five years to life, depending on the severity of injury experienced by the victim. Additionally, you may be required to pay restitution.
Victim Restitution In Federal Domestic Violence Cases
In addition to imprisonment and fines, you could face the mandatory payment of victim restitution if you are convicted of domestic violence in federal court. This is yet another reason to exercise your right to an attorney as quickly as possible. Along with your freedom, your financial security may be at stake.
A federal domestic violence conviction may include mandatory victim restitution for:
- Medical expenses
- Physical therapy
- Psychological care
- Transportation
- Temporary housing
- Lost income
- Attorney’s fees
- Childcare expenses
Contact Our Miami Federal Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers
At Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, we understand just how serious federal domestic violence charges can be. This is a situation best handled by a team that has the know-how to build a compelling case that tells your side of the story. Particularly with domestic violence matters, it can come down to minor details and he-said, she-said situations. A conviction should not be based on the testimony of a witness who may be acting out of anger, revenge, or jealousy. There may be ways to effectively challenge such charges or mitigate penalties in order to protect your future.
Contact our Miami office today by calling 305-564-4329. We’re ready to help.