How a Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Can Help You

Many people think that a domestic violence case is a routine criminal manner given the frequency with which it is charged. This is far from the truth. The ramifications of a domestic violence conviction can stay with you for years. The after-effects of a conviction can include the following:

·        The loss of your ability to own firearms

·        Difficulty passing background checks and finding certain jobs

·        A negative impact on any child custody

arrangements you have or may have in the future

·        Damage to your reputation

You Need to Know Your Legal Options

When you hire a domestic violence attorney, you act to protect your legal rights throughout the criminal justice process. In many cases, people simply do not understand how the legal system works and the legal options in their case. For some defendants, it is their first experience in the criminal justice system. 

The fact is that law enforcement errs on the side of arresting people when they show up to investigate a domestic violence call. It is the safest course of action for them because they might face consequences if they did nothing and something happened after that. This means that many domestic violence arrests do not even eventually lead to charges.

Not All Domestic Violence Arrests Lead to Charges

However, it does mean that someone needs to tell your side of the story to the prosecutor. An attorney may be able to help clear up a misunderstanding that led to your arrest. If the prosecutor still files charges, some cases end up being dismissed by the judge who sees the charges as unsupported. In any event, you need an effective voice to help you navigate the process after the arrest.

You might have legal options after you have been charged. The prosecutor may be open to a deal that reduces the charges. Alternatively, the charges may not be supported by the weight of the evidence. This is when we would take the case to court and focus on fighting the charges. The prosecutor has the burden of proof in domestic violence cases. Your attorney could do the following:

·        Gather evidence in your case to cast doubt on the prosecutor’s charges

·        Cross-examine the prosecution’s witnesses if your case goes to trial

·        Question your accuser in court

·        Work to get protective orders against you lifted

In the end, you need the best legal outcome in your case. In some instances, this could mean reduced charges. Without an attorney, you would not know whether your best move is taking your case to trial or working for a plea agreement. The most important thing is that your legal rights are respected, and you are not pressured by law enforcement.

Contact a Domestic Violence Attorney

Call the experienced attorneys at Cohen Law Offices at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online if you have been charged with domestic. The sooner that you retain an attorney to defend you, the quicker you can move towards obtaining the best legal outcome and putting this behind you.