Domestic Violence Fort Lauderdale Attorney
With 15+ years’ experience and 4.9/5 reviews, Mark handle Fort Lauderdale domestic violence injunctions.
Why Work With Mark E. Sawicki, P.A.
4.9/5 Reviews
Our clients love us, and you will, too.
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Unwavering in privacy and strategic handling of sensitive legal matters.
No Hidden Fees Ever
Fair and transparent billing
Work Directly With Mark
Work directly with Mark, a divorce and family law attorney with 15+ years’ experience.
Comprehensive Domestic Violence Services in Fort Lauderdale
Contact me, Mark E. Sawicki, to discuss what to do next and how to protect yourself legally.
Filing for Divorce as a Path to Safety
Domestic violence can threaten physical safety, emotional health, and the well-being of children and loved ones. For some families, divorce becomes part of the solution—but the legal process must be handled carefully when abuse is involved. As a Florida family law attorney, I help clients in domestic violence Fort Lauderdale matters understand their rights, pursue protective options, and move forward with a plan focused on safety and stability.
Safety Comes First
Domestic violence often escalates over time. When abuse is present, the priority is to get to a safe location and reduce risk—especially when separation or divorce is being considered. In many cases, this may involve contacting law enforcement, seeking support services, or creating a safety plan before taking legal steps. Because separation can be a high-risk period, it’s important to act strategically and with professional guidance.
Using the Civil Courts for Protection
Florida law allows victims to seek protection through a domestic violence injunction (restraining order). A court order can restrict contact, set boundaries, and address safety-related issues—sometimes including temporary use of a shared residence and provisions involving children. In Fort Lauderdale domestic violence cases, obtaining an injunction can be a critical step toward stability while divorce or custody matters move forward. I review the facts of your situation and help you choose the most effective legal path.
Documentation Matters
When domestic violence intersects with divorce or parenting issues, detailed documentation can strongly impact court decisions. Records may include police reports, medical records, text messages, photos, witness statements, or other evidence showing a pattern of abuse. Clear documentation can influence outcomes involving time-sharing, parental responsibility, child support, alimony, and safety-based restrictions. I help clients gather and present information in a way that supports their case and protects their rights.
Schedule a Consultation to Understand Your Options
It’s important to act quickly when domestic violence is a factor in your divorce. Call me at 954-458-0005 to discuss how I can help ensure that you move forward safely and with the legal protection you need.
I serve family law clients throughout Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach Gardens and the surrounding communities.
Get a Free 20-Minute Consultation with Mark
Facing divorce, custody, or family issues? Mark Sawicki offers compassionate, determined guidance to help you move forward.
What Makes Mark E. Sawicki, P.A. Different
At Mark E. Sawicki, P.A., we combine business-minded strategy with emotional intelligence to protect both your financial security and your family’s well-being. Unlike big firms where you’re just another case number, Sawicki Law offers:
Industry Standard
Impersonal service / Long Response Time
Hidden or unpredictable fees
Limited expertise
General family law
Slow response times
Mark E. Sawicki, P.A.
Personal attention & direct access to Mark
Fair and transparent billing – No Hidden Fees Ever
Licensed in 8 jurisdictions including the U.S. Supreme Court
Specialization in high-asset, complex, and LGBTQIA+ divorce
4.9/5 Reviews for responsiveness & results
Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence in Fort Lauderdale
Below are answers to common questions clients ask when dealing with domestic violence in Fort Lauderdale. These are general explanations based on Florida law and are not a substitute for legal advice.
How much jail time can someone face for domestic violence in Florida?
Jail time depends on the charge and circumstances. A first-degree misdemeanor domestic violence offense can carry up to 1 year in jail, while felony domestic violence (such as aggravated assault, strangulation, or repeat offenses) can result in multiple years in prison. Courts may also impose probation, mandatory counseling, and injunctions.
Is Florida strict on domestic violence?
Yes. Florida has strict domestic violence laws, including mandatory arrest policies in many situations and strong enforcement of protective injunctions. Judges prioritize victim safety and may impose immediate restrictions on contact, parenting time, and access to shared residences.
What are the four types of domestic abuse recognized in Florida?
Florida law recognizes domestic violence as more than physical harm. Common forms include:
- Physical abuse (hitting, choking, restraining)
- Emotional or psychological abuse (threats, intimidation, coercion)
- Sexual abuse (non-consensual acts)
- Economic abuse (controlling finances or access to resources)
Any of these may support a domestic violence injunction depending on the facts.
What is the domestic violence rate in Florida?
Florida consistently reports tens of thousands of domestic violence incidents each year, according to state and federal data. Law enforcement and courts treat these cases seriously due to the high risk of repeat incidents, especially during separation or divorce.
Client Reviews
Hear from some of our clients.
Lisa M.
Google Review
“…I came to Mark as a very scared and weak woman who had been emotionally abused for years. He took me under his wing, protected me… Legally, Mark is a bulldog… In the end, I won… Trust me, you want him on your side…”
Terri L.
Google Review
“I owe him everything! Mark saw me through what I dreamt to be a nightmare and did an freaking PHENOMENAL job on representing me (and my 4yr old son)… THANK YOU for ensuring we were heard!”
Annie B.
Google Review
“…His kindness and understanding made a challenging time much easier to navigate… fierce determination… fighting for my best interests every step of the way…”
Get a Free 20-Minute Consultation with Mark
Facing divorce, custody, or family issues? Mark Sawicki offers compassionate, determined guidance to help you move forward.