Cecil County Domestic Violence Lawyer
Domestic violence is an issue that can affect our whole society. Sometimes it seems as if our most intimate relationships are the ones that end up hurting the most. Domestic violence can affect children, grownups and tear families apart. Groundless accusations can have long-reaching effects which may take years to deal with. Domestic violence issues involve criminal and family court issues. There may be a protective order issued or criminal proceedings scheduled. It is a crime to violate a protective order, which typically comes from a family court judge. No matter your situation, you want to do the best to protect yourself, your rights and your freedom. Consider setting up an appointment with a Cecil county domestic violence lawyer.
A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney may be invaluable in helping you navigate the complex world of criminal procedures and various laws that may apply to your situation. You have rights, but it may be difficult to assert them without knowledgeable help.
Domestic Violence Laws
Domestic violence includes abusive acts towards family members, which the Maryland legislature defined in Family Law Section 4-501. Some examples are:
- Causing serious physical harm
- Causing someone to be fearful of imminent serious physical harm
- Any type of assault
- Rape or other sexual offense
- False imprisonment
- Stalking
- Revenge porn
The law allows parents and stepparents to apply reasonable corporal punishment to children. Complainants can include people who had a sexual relationship with the actor and lived in the home for at least ninety days of a one year period before the filing of an action.
Complainants can also be current or former spouses, people related by blood, marriage or adoption, vulnerable adults, people who had sex with the actor within a year and people who share a child.
Punishments for Violation of Protective Orders
If a judge issues a protective order, anyone who violates the order may face criminal prosecution and a punishment or fine, as well as contempt of court, which can include additional civil penalties, according to Family Law Section 4-508.
If a person does not follow a protective order, the court can convict that person of a misdemeanor, according to Family Law Section 4-509. For a first offense, the court can put the person in jail for up to ninety days and issue a fine of no more than $1,000. For a second offense, the court can put the person in jail for up to one year and issue a fine of no more than $2,500.
Arrests for Domestic Violence
Police do not need a warrant to arrest someone for domestic violence, according to Criminal Procedure Section 2-204. The police must have probable cause to believe the following:
- The person arrested abused their spouse or another person who lives in the home
- There is evidence of physical harm
- The police must arrest immediately or the person may run away, cause harm to another person or thing or try to destroy evidence
Let a Cecil County Domestic Violence Attorney Assist You
Domestic violence is a serious matter that should not be ignored. If the police have arrested you for domestic violence or a judge has issues a protective order, you may want to take action quickly. These matters may affect your future, your rights and your freedom.
Reach out to a Cecil County domestic violence lawyer to see how they would advise you and how you can build an aggressive defense plan to insure the best possible outcome in your unique situation.