If you have been accused of domestic violence, you may feel confused or even angry. If you are unsure of what steps to take, you might find yourself turning to friends or family members for advice. While they are undoubtedly well-meaning and may have some words of comfort or wisdom, your first response should always be to contact a domestic violence lawyer.
Waiting to contact a lawyer can be the gravest mistake you make after charges of domestic violence. A domestic violence lawyer will help you understand the charges, explain your options, and help to minimize the damage done to your family as you go through this difficult time. The sooner you are able to discuss your plans with a lawyer who specializes in domestic violence, the sooner you can move on.
Understanding the Charges
The Law with respect to family related, domestic violence issues. Book of law with a gavel and a Restraining Order.
Domestic violence occurs when there is assault in a partnered, domestic relationship. Domestic violence can occur between members of the same or opposite sex. Accused parties can be either male or female. Assault does not have to be physical or sexual to warrant charges. Verbal and mental abuse are also grounds for charges of domestic violence.
When someone is charged with domestic violence, the penalties can be severe. Depending on the severity of the charges, the accused may be sentenced to multiple years in jail. Any type of domestic violence charge can stay with you forever if you are found guilty. You may find it difficult to find a job or a place to live. Even if you do not serve any time behind bars, you might lose contact with your children on a permanent basis.
Why You Need a Domestic Violence Attorney
An attorney works with you to help you through the case, from beginning to end. It is very difficult to prove innocence if you do not have a good lawyer to represent you. A domestic violence attorney will help you build the case you need to refute the erroneous charges. You may hope that you reconcile with your partner or move on. Your domestic violence attorney should be able to guide you in ways you cannot on your own.
Domestic violence attorneys specialize in working with those who are accused of this kind of assault. Working with a lawyer who focuses on assault may help, but domestic assault has its own set of challenges that require expertise. Domestic assault often has more severe outcomes than non-domestic cases, which makes it all the more important for you to find a lawyer with experience that you can trust.
How to Find the Best Domestic Violence Lawyer
You should only consider attorneys who have background and experience working on domestic violence cases. When you are searching for a lawyer, look to see if they offer testimonials or client statements on their website. Good domestic violence attorneys should have a large number of testimonials that show their ability to work with the accused during this difficult time.
You also need to book a consultation. A good domestic offense lawyer will offer you a consultation that allows you to talk to one another. You will explain the charges brought against you and your ultimate goals. The lawyer will explain how the process works and how they will help you. At this time, you will probably discuss the timeline, fees and exactly what to do moving forward. If you are not comfortable with the lawyer after your consultation, you should feel free to keep looking until you find the right fit. However, time is always of the essence. Make sure you are fairly assessing the lawyer before you send them away.
A domestic violence charge is a serious and life-changing matter. You need a domestic violence attorney who knows the ins and outs of these types of charges. If you act quickly, by contacting an excellent lawyer, you can mitigate a great deal of pain and hardship.