Can a teenager be charged with domestic violence in Florida?

Your teenager slammed the door and yelled during an argument. Then, things escalated, and your teen threw something at you. Minutes later, the police were at your door, and your child was in handcuffs.

Now you're facing something no parent ever wants to imagine: a domestic violence charge against your own child.

At the Law Offices of Robert David Malove, our South Florida domestic violence defense lawyers understand how frightening this experience can be for you and your child. Florida’s domestic violence laws are strict, and yes, minors can be arrested, charged, and in some cases prosecuted in adult court. But you’re not powerless. There are immediate steps you can take to protect your child’s rights, freedom, and future.

Domestic Violence in Florida: The Legal Definition Includes More Than Physical Injury

Florida law defines domestic violence as any criminal offense resulting in physical injury or death of one family or household member by another. Florida’s domestic violence law specifically includes:

• Assault or battery. This means that your child can be charged with domestic violence for hitting, pushing, or even threatening harm.
• Stalking or harassment. Persistent unwanted contact, either online or in person, counts as domestic violence.
• False imprisonment. Blocking someone from leaving a room can qualify as domestic violence.
• Kidnapping. Even if no physical injury occurs, forcing or restraining a family member against their will can still result in a domestic violence charge.
• Sexual assault or battery. These offenses are serious forms of domestic violence and can lead to severe criminal penalties, including mandatory registration as a sex offender.

A “family or household member” under Florida law includes:

• Parents or step-parents
• Siblings
• Grandparents or grandchildren
• Spouses or former spouses
• Cohabitants and romantic partners
• Co-parents of a child

This broad definition means that even a fight between teenage siblings or a conflict with a live-in grandparent could lead to a domestic violence arrest.

Teens Can Be Arrested for Domestic Violence in Florida—And Some Cases May Go to Adult Court

In Florida, minors can be arrested for domestic violence. While many juvenile cases remain in the juvenile court system, some are transferred to adult court, especially if the charge is serious, the teen has a prior record, or the teen is approaching the age of majority.

Florida law enforcement is required to make an arrest when there is probable cause of domestic violence. That means if your teen pushes a parent or sibling during a fight, they could be arrested.

If a parent or household member calls 911, the situation is essentially out of your hands once police arrive. The police have a duty to investigate the situation, and they may make an arrest if there is probable cause to do so.

The intent behind Florida’s aggressive domestic violence enforcement is protection, but for families, it often leads to unintended and traumatic consequences.

What Happens After a Teen Is Arrested for Domestic Violence

Once your child is arrested, a series of events may unfold quickly:

• Detention. Your teen may be held in juvenile detention while awaiting an initial hearing. In some cases, this can last up to 21 days.
• No-contact orders. Courts often prohibit the teen from returning home or contacting the alleged victim, even if it’s a parent or sibling.
• School and activity restrictions. Teens may face interruptions in their education, extracurricular activities, and jobs.
• Court proceedings. The case may proceed through juvenile court or be transferred to adult court.

These disruptions affect not just your child’s legal status, but their emotional well-being and your family's stability.

What You Can Do if Your Child Is Charged With Domestic Violence in Florida

Being proactive is essential. Here’s how to help your teen immediately:

• Call a Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer. Early legal intervention can make the difference between a short-term crisis and long-term consequences.
• Don’t assume it’s a “family matter.” Once police are involved, this becomes a legal issue. Talking it out won’t stop prosecution.
• Document everything. Keep notes on what happened, including time, witnesses, and your teen’s behavior before and after.
• Follow court orders exactly. Violating a no-contact order, even unintentionally, can result in additional charges.

Additionally, you may seek counseling for your child, yourself, and other household members.

Domestic Violence Charges Can Follow a Teen Into Adulthood

The effects of a domestic violence conviction can be lasting and may include:

• Permanent criminal record. Juvenile records are not always sealed automatically.
• Educational barriers. College applications and scholarships frequently ask about an applicant’s criminal history.
• Employment impact. Background checks may reveal past arrests or convictions and prevent your child from getting a job.
• Housing challenges. Public housing and some landlords may reject applicants with a history of domestic violence.

That’s why it’s crucial to work with an experienced Fort Lauderdale domestic violence lawyer who can fight to reduce or dismiss charges, protect your child’s record, and explore diversion or treatment-based options.

Jail Alternatives for Teens—If You Act Quickly and Strategically

Some juvenile domestic violence cases qualify for diversion programs or counseling instead of prosecution. These programs may include:

• Anger management therapy to teach coping skills and de-escalation strategies
• Family counseling to help rebuild trust and healthy communication at home
• Community service or restitution to allow teens to take responsibility without jail time

A skilled attorney can negotiate for these alternatives and fight to protect your child’s future.

Know the Signs Before a Domestic Violence Incident Occurs

Often, there are signs of potential problems before police are called. Domestic conflict involving teens may escalate gradually. As a parent, you can watch for:

• Verbal aggression. Yelling, cursing, or threatening family members may come before physical aggression.
• Controlling behavior. Attempts to dominate or intimidate younger siblings or parents can be signs that potential physical harm will happen in the future.
• Property damage during arguments. Punching walls or breaking items may escalate to physical harm.
• Emotional volatility. Sudden outbursts, withdrawal, or extreme defensiveness are signals that your child is suffering.

While you can’t control everything your teenager does, you can try to de-escalate tension at home so that a domestic violence incident does not occur. Specifically, you can try to:

• Set clear, consistent boundaries. Explain what is expected at home and what the possible legal consequences are if things escalate.
• Encourage open dialogue. Let your teen speak, but make respect a non-negotiable value.
• Seek help early. Therapists, school counselors, or family mediators can provide individualized advice to help you help your child.

Even knowing the signs and taking action may not have been enough to prevent a domestic violence incident, but you can still help your child by making sure their legal rights are protected.

Why You Need a Miami Domestic Violence Lawyer if Your Teen is Arrested for Domestic Violence

Right now, it may seem like your family is isolated and without options. However, at the Law Offices of Robert David Malove, our experienced Fort Lauderdale domestic violence defense lawyers are here to listen to what happened and advise you on the next steps.

We know what’s at stake. It’s not just your child’s legal status. It’s also their education, mental health, and future opportunities.

Whether your teen is falsely accused or has made a serious mistake, we will:

• Fight to keep the case in juvenile court
• Work to get charges dropped or reduced
• Consider every possible defense
• Negotiate for treatment, not punishment
• Advocate for sealing or expunging your child’s record

A single argument shouldn’t define your teenager’s life. If your child has been arrested or charged with domestic violence in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in South Florida, don’t wait to get help.