Being accused of battery in Florida can be a life-changing experience. Whether the incident stemmed from a heated argument, a misunderstanding, or an act of self-defense, facing battery charges can put your freedom, reputation, and future at serious risk. Even a misdemeanor battery conviction can have lasting consequences, including jail time, a permanent criminal record, and loss of employment opportunities. At Bozanic Law, we understand that every battery case has two sides—and we are here to make sure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.

What Is Battery Under Florida Law?

According to Florida Statute §784.03, battery is defined as the actual and intentional touching or striking of another person against their will, or intentionally causing bodily harm. In Florida, battery may be classified in various degrees depending on the severity of the incident and whether the defendant has prior convictions.

Types of battery charges include:

• Simple battery (first-degree misdemeanor): Up to 1 year in jail and $1,000 in fines
• Felony battery (third-degree felony): If the accused has a prior battery conviction—up to 5 years in prison
• Aggravated battery (second-degree felony): Involves serious bodily injury, use of a deadly weapon, or battery against a pregnant victim—up to 15 years in prison

Each charge brings not only legal consequences but also emotional and social ones. You may lose access to your children, face restrictions on where you can go, or suffer damage to your personal and professional relationships.

Common Situations That Lead to Battery Charges:

• Bar fights or altercations in public places
• Domestic disputes or arguments with a partner or family member
• Physical confrontations at work or school
• Road rage incidents
• Physical self-defense that law enforcement interprets as aggression
• Disputes during social gatherings, sports events, or parties

In many of these cases, the accused believed they were acting in defense or never intended to cause harm. Unfortunately, even minor physical contact—like grabbing a wrist or pushing someone away—can result in battery charges if the other person claims it was unwanted.

What Should You Do If You’re Accused of Battery?

The first and most important step is to remain silent and request legal representation. Even if you believe the incident was minor or that the other party won’t press charges, the state may still pursue the case. Florida prosecutors have broad authority to file battery charges regardless of whether the alleged victim wants to proceed.

We advise that you:

• Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present
• Avoid any contact with the alleged victim, even to apologize
• Preserve any evidence, including messages, surveillance footage, or photos
• Document your side of the story, including witnesses who may testify on your behalf
• Contact Bozanic Law immediately for a confidential consultation

Early legal intervention can protect you from saying or doing something that might harm your defense.

How We Defend Battery Charges

At Bozanic Law, we know that the prosecution often builds a narrative quickly and aggressively—sometimes without understanding the full picture. Our defense strategy begins with a thorough investigation into the facts, including the relationship between the parties, witness credibility, physical evidence, and police conduct.

Our defense strategies may involve:

• Arguing self-defense, mutual combat, or defense of others
• Challenging the credibility of the accuser, especially if their statements are inconsistent
• Demonstrating a lack of intent or showing that any contact was accidental
• Highlighting false allegations, which may be motivated by revenge, jealousy, or manipulation
• Filing motions to suppress unlawful evidence or dismiss the case due to insufficient proof

We also consider non-trial solutions when appropriate, including diversion programs, anger management classes, or conditional dismissal agreements that may allow you to avoid a criminal conviction entirely.

Is Trial the Right Option? Or Should You Accept a Plea Deal?

This decision must be made carefully, with full understanding of your legal position. At Bozanic Law, we break down the options for each client—explaining the risks, benefits, and long-term effects of going to trial versus accepting a negotiated resolution.

If the evidence against you is weak or the allegations are exaggerated, we won’t hesitate to take your case to court. If a plea deal is appropriate, we’ll fight to minimize the consequences and protect your future.

Choose Bozanic Law for Compassionate, Powerful Defense

Facing a battery charge can feel isolating and terrifying. But you are not alone. At Bozanic Law, we treat every client with respect and humanity. Led by defense attorney Zeljka Bozanic, our team is deeply committed to providing personal, strategic, and aggressive legal representation for those accused of violent crimes.

We know how much is at stake—and we’re ready to fight for you from day one.

📞 Call 954-800-2864 today for a free, confidential consultation. Let us help you take back control of your life.