Have You Been Accused of Domestic Violence?

What is Domestic Violence Law?

Domestic violence laws provide the criminal rules for those who inflict emotional, physical or mental harm to others they share a family or close relationship with. They also outline the protections available to victims who endure this type of harm. Federal legislation has made domestic violence a crime, although most cases are prosecuted under state law.

Convictions for these offenses dictate that the defendant’s behavior and relationship to the victim meet certain requirements. For example, any behavior that puts someone in immediate harm or fear for their lives -- be it a relative, past or present relationship or anyone in the household -- no matter the severity, can be considered domestic violence.

If You Are Accused of Domestic Violence:

First things first, obey whatever instructions are given to you by the court, no matter how bad the allegations are, even if they aren’t true. The court will almost definitely impose contact restriction between you and the accuser. Ignoring this restriction could result in you being thrown behind bars, and your domestic violence attorney will have a harder time defending you. Your best bet is to just leave that person alone.

If You Are Arrested:

If you’ve been arrested, secure an attorney. Once you have secured your domestic violence attorney, they will outline the proceedings and what happens next. If the charges aren’t retracted, there are two ways in which a criminal case can be solved. One, you can go to trial and fight the charges, or two, you can plead guilty and accept less harsh penalties.

Choosing an option is difficult. If you go to trial and get acquitted, you walk out a free person, free of any wrongdoing. But if you plead guilty, you can eliminate the risk of an uncertain verdict. Your attorney will explain both to you, but in the end, the choice is yours.  Of course, based on what evidence the prosecution has, you should think long and hard about which route you want to take.

A domestic violence charge on your record could severely hurt not just your personal reputation, but the professional one as well. If you are looking for a job and there is a background check, it will be sure to pop up. Employers may not feel other employees are safe around you and deny you the position. If you have been accused of domestic violence, the first is to obey the court, but also seek a qualified domestic violence attorney who can guide you through this situation. If you are innocent, you want to make sure you do everything in your power to help your case. Following instructions were given to you by your attorney -- and the court -- is imperative.

If you need a domestic violence attorney in South Florida, S.G. Morrow & Associates, P.A. is your best bet. They have the experience it takes to defend you. Don’t leave your case in the hands of lesser known law firms. Go with the one that has stood the test of time. Don’t hesitate. Call today.