A domestic violence charge can have serious consequences, especially if it is upgraded to felony domestic violence. If you have been accused of this crime, you need to act quickly and defend yourself. The Hartford County domestic violence attorneys from our firm can help you do that.
When Can Someone Be Charged With Domestic Violence?
A person is usually charged with domestic violence when they are accused of committing one of these crimes against a family member or someone that they live with:
- Assault
- Stalking or harassment
- Issuing threats of violence
- Criminal coercion
- Sexual violence
These crimes can result in domestic violence charges when you are related to the alleged victim or live with them. So someone related to you by blood or marriage can accuse you of domestic violence. A roommate can actually accuse you of domestic violence as well. This can also apply to anyone you are in a relationship with or someone you were in a relationship with.
When is Domestic Violence a Felony?
Generally, whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a felony depends on the type of domestic violence you are accused of committing. So an accusation of stalking may be a misdemeanor, but a charge of assault could bring the crime up to a class A felony. Every situation is different, but an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help defend you from any accusations.
What Should I Do When I Am Charged?
When charged with felony domestic violence, you should seriously consider hiring an attorney. Do not talk to the police. They can use anything that you say against you and could even twist your words to hurt your case. Communicate with the police through your attorney and protect yourself.
Some people think that, when charged with domestic violence, they can fix the problem themselves. They just have to reach out to the person who accused them and take the time to iron this situation out. Do not do that. You could end up giving the state more evidence against you. You can even violate a restraining order or order of protection, and that means even heftier penalties.
How Can I Be Punished for Felony Domestic Violence?
Felony domestic violence is often punished with long jail sentences and high fines. The exact penalties depend on the type of offense committed and the degree of crime the state decides to charge you with. We can take a look at some examples:
- First-degree threatening, second-degree strangulation, or second-degree assault: up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine, and probation
- First-degree assault or sexual assault: up to 20 years in prison and a $15,000 fine
Repeat offenders can face harsher penalties.
Contact Our Law Firm
Defending yourself from felony domestic violence charges can be tough. There is so much at stake here, so you should seriously consider contacting our law firm. The Law Offices of Marc N. Needelman can offer you a free consultation and tell you more about how we can help you form a defensive strategy.
