Defend Your Rights in a Sensitive Situation

Discreet, affordable domestic violence defense in Clearwater for individuals facing serious allegations.

Domestic violence allegations are among the most serious charges you can face, and they carry consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom. In Clearwater, a domestic violence arrest can result in immediate removal from your home, a no-contact order that prevents you from seeing your family, and criminal charges that affect your employment, custody rights, and reputation. These cases are often based on conflicting statements, emotions, and situations that escalated quickly, and you need representation that understands the sensitivity and complexity involved.

Joshua Bethea Attorney at Law provides discreet, affordable defense for clients accused of domestic violence offenses. We help you understand injunctions, no-contact orders, and the criminal process while building a defense strategy tailored to the facts of your case. Every situation is different, and we focus on protecting your rights while navigating highly sensitive legal matters that affect your family and your future.

If you are facing domestic violence charges in Clearwater, contact us for a free consultation to review your situation and discuss your defense options.

What We Do to Protect Your Rights and Your Future

We begin by reviewing the arrest report, witness statements, and any evidence such as photographs, medical records, or recorded statements made to law enforcement. In Clearwater, domestic violence cases often involve conflicting accounts, and we look for inconsistencies, motives for false allegations, and violations of your rights during the arrest or investigation. We also represent you at injunction hearings, where the alleged victim may seek a restraining order that affects your housing, custody, and contact with your children.

Once we enter the case, you will notice that having legal representation changes how the court and prosecutors view your situation. We ensure that your side of the story is heard, that evidence is examined critically, and that any procedural errors are challenged.

We represent clients at arraignment, pre-trial hearings, and trial if necessary, and we negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or seek diversion programs when appropriate. Domestic violence convictions carry mandatory penalties, including counseling, probation, and firearms restrictions, so early intervention and a strong defense are critical. We do not handle divorce or custody matters, but we can refer you to qualified family law attorneys if needed.

Domestic violence cases are complex and emotionally charged, and most clients in Clearwater want to understand what they are facing before their first court appearance. These are the questions we hear most often.

These charges raise a lot of questions, and that is normal

What is a domestic violence injunction?
An injunction is a civil court order that prohibits you from contacting the alleged victim, going near their home or workplace, or possessing firearms. Violating an injunction is a criminal offense that can result in arrest and additional charges.
How do false allegations affect my case?
False allegations are more common in domestic violence cases than in other criminal matters, often arising from custody disputes, anger, or attempts to gain leverage in divorce proceedings. We investigate the circumstances, identify inconsistencies, and present evidence that challenges the credibility of the allegations.
What happens if the alleged victim wants to drop the charges?
In Florida, the decision to prosecute domestic violence cases rests with the state, not the alleged victim. Even if the victim recants or asks the prosecutor to drop the charges, the case can still proceed based on other evidence such as police reports or photographs.
What are the penalties for a domestic violence conviction?
Penalties include jail time, probation, mandatory batterer's intervention programs, and a permanent criminal record. You may also lose the right to possess firearms and face restrictions in custody and visitation matters.
When should I hire a defense attorney for a domestic violence charge?
You should hire an attorney immediately after your arrest or as soon as you learn that charges may be filed. Early representation allows us to review evidence, prepare for injunction hearings, and begin building your defense before prosecutors solidify their case.

Joshua Bethea Attorney at Law represents clients throughout Clearwater who are facing domestic violence charges and need a defense that respects the sensitivity of the situation while protecting their rights and their future. We offer free consultations to review your charges, explain the legal process, and discuss realistic outcomes based on the facts. If you are ready to discuss your defense, contact us today.