Domestic violence can have far-reaching implications, but what happens when an alleged incident occurs outside the confines of the home? After all, domestic violence often conjures images of violence within the home.
In Florida, the jurisdiction for domestic violence charges extends beyond the household. It includes a range of scenarios where individuals may face legal repercussions for their actions.
The scope of domestic violence law
In Florida, domestic violence does not always mean acts committed within the home. The state’s laws define domestic violence as assault, aggravated stalking, kidnapping and other actions resulting in physical injury or death of one family or household member by another.
When an alleged incident occurs outside the home, several factors come into play to determine whether it falls under the purview of domestic violence law in Florida. These factors include the relationship between the parties, the location of the incident and the nature of the offense.
Relationship between the parties
In Florida, domestic violence laws apply to individuals who are family or household members, including spouses and former spouses. The laws also include individuals related by blood or marriage, individuals who currently or previously resided together and those who share a child.
Location of the incident
While domestic violence often occurs within the home, incidents outside the household can also lead to charges. Florida’s domestic violence statutes do not specify that the offense must occur within the home. Instead, the focus is on the relationship between the parties and the nature of the alleged offense, regardless of where it takes place.
Nature of the offense
The nature of the offense plays a major role in determining whether charges will fall under a domestic violence category. If the actions meet the criteria in Florida’s domestic violence laws and involve individuals who qualify as family or household members, charges can occur. This is true no matter where the incident took place.
Individuals should understand the complexities of domestic violence law to better assess potential liabilities in cases involving alleged incidents outside the home.
