Domestic Violence Deferred Prosecution Program in Pinellas County
In Pinellas County, FL, the Domestic Violence Deferred Prosecution Program might result in the charge being dropped. To complete the diversion program, the accused must complete a period of supervision to complete the following special conditions:
- one year of supervision at no costs with no reporting requirements other than attending counseling;
- complete a 29-week Batterer’s Intervention Program (BIP) counseling;
- undergo an Alcohol or Substance Abuse evaluation and complete treatment is recommended; and
- pay the State Attorney Costs of $50 for a misdemeanor or $100 for a felony.
Prosecutors with the State Attorney’s Office in Clearwater, FL, might offer the diversion program to a person accused of domestic violence battery after consulting with the alleged victim. The program has strict eligibility requirements.
The benefits of entering the Domestic Violence Deferred Prosecution Program in Clearwater, FL, include saving money on probation fees, court costs and fees, having fewer court appearances, and avoiding a conviction. By avoiding a conviction, you might be eligible to expunge the criminal history records after the charge is dropped.
Under Florida Statute Section 741.283, you might be facing a minimum term of imprisonment for domestic violence if you are convicted. For example, if a person is adjudicated guilty of a crime of domestic violence and intentionally caused bodily harm to the victim, the court is required to order the accused to serve a minimum of 5 days in the county jail as part of the sentence imposed. In addition to jail, the court might also sentence the person to probation, community control, or an additional period of incarceration.
Read more about how domestic violence crimes are prosecuted in Pinellas County, FL.
Additional Resources
Domestic Violence Diversion in Clearwater, FL – Visit the Sixth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office website to learn more about diversion programs in Pinellas County, FL, including the domestic violence deferred prosecution program administered under the leadership of State Attorney Bruce Bartlett.
Attorney for Domestic Violence Deferred Prosecution in Pinellas County, FL
After an arrest for domestic violence in Pinellas County, FL, contact an attorney at Sammis Law Firm. Attorney Katherine Aranda is experienced in representing clients accused of domestic violence, including charges of assault or battery.
Attorney Katherine Aranda can explain the pros and cons of entering a deferred prosecution program to resolve the case. If the accusations are false or exaggerated, she can help you fight to get the charge dropped or dismissed during the pre-trial hearings or by going to trial.
Before you decide, contact us.
Call 727-210-7004.
This article was last updated on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
