You’re Not Alone— Bogenschutz is Here to Help

Being accused of domestic violence is overwhelming. It can feel like your entire world has been turned upside down—your reputation, your family, and your future are all on the line. Maybe you were arrested after a misunderstanding, or perhaps emotions ran high, and things got out of hand. Whatever the situation, you deserve a strong defense and a lawyer who truly listens to your side of the story.

My name is Kathleen Bogenschutz, I’m a defense attorney. At Bogenschutz PLLC, I know that every case has two sides. I have defended countless individuals across Tallahassee, Destin, and North Florida, helping them protect their rights and their future. You are not defined by this moment, and I will fight to make sure you get a fair and just outcome.

What Is Domestic Violence in Florida?

Under Florida law (Fla. Stat. § 741.28), domestic violence includes offenses like assault, battery, stalking, false imprisonment, or any crime resulting in injury between family or household members. These cases often involve spouses, former partners, co-parents, or individuals who live together.

Common charges that fall under domestic violence include:

• Domestic Battery – Physical harm or unwanted touching of a household member.
  
  
• Aggravated Assault – Threatening harm with a weapon.
  
  
• Stalking or Harassment – Unwanted contact, messages, or behavior that causes fear.
  
  
• False Imprisonment – Preventing someone from leaving a space or controlling their movements.
• Domestic Battery by Strangulation

A domestic violence arrest often comes with immediate consequences, such as a no-contact order, loss of firearm rights, or even removal from your home. The sooner you take legal action, the better your chances of defending yourself.

What Are the Penalties for Domestic Violence in Florida?

A domestic violence conviction can lead to serious, life-changing consequences, including:

• Jail or Prison Time – Even a first offense can lead to jail time.  Not all of these charges carry mandatory time on a first offense.  Please take out mandatory.
  
  
• Permanent Criminal Record – Domestic violence charges cannot be sealed or expunged if you are convicted.  Further, when a crimes is designated as a domestic violence offense, even a withholding of adjudication (no conviction) will not be able to be sealed or expunged.
  
  
• Loss of Firearm Rights – A conviction may result in a permanent gun ownership ban.  Anyone convicted of a felony will lose their firearm rights.  They may make an attempt to get their civil rights restored or for clemency, but it is highly likely that you will no longer be able to own a gun.
  
  
• Restraining Orders – You may be restricted from seeing your children or returning to your home.
  
  

Additionally, domestic violence charges can affect your job, professional license, and even future custody rights. If you’ve been accused, it’s critical to have a defense attorney who understands how to fight these charges and protect your future.

How Bogenshutz PLLC Builds Your Defense

I take a thorough, compassionate, and strategic approach to every domestic violence case. I know that these cases are often complex, involving personal conflicts, misunderstandings, or even false allegations. I will:

Examine the Evidence Closely – Was there a 911 call? Witnesses? Injuries? I analyze every detail.
Challenge False Allegations – Domestic violence accusations can sometimes be used to gain an advantage in divorce or custody battles.
Fight for Your Rights in Court – If necessary, I will aggressively defend you in front of a judge or jury.

Common Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges

Not every accusation is true, and not every case should result in a conviction. Possible defenses may include:

• Self-Defense – You were protecting yourself from harm.
  
  
• False Allegations – The accusations were made out of anger, revenge, or to gain legal leverage.
  
  
• Lack of Evidence – If there are no injuries, witnesses, or clear proof, the case may be weak.
  
  
• Accidental Harm – Sometimes, injuries happen unintentionally, and there was no intent to cause harm.
  
  

Every case is different, and there is always a defense strategy that fits your situation.

You Deserve to Be Heard—Let’s Fight This Together

If you’re facing domestic violence charges, you might feel like no one is on your side. But you don’t have to go through this alone. Kathleen Bogenshutz is here to provide a strong defense, a steady presence, and a plan to move forward.

Call (850) 273-8327 today for a confidential consultation, or fill out the form below to get started.

We’ll face this together.

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