Columbia Domestic Violence Lawyer
Domestic violence is a term used to refer to any act of violence committed by and against members of the same household. A variety of criminal offenses can be classified as domestic violence, and most often, women and children are the victims. For this reason, domestic violence is taken very seriously by the police and court system.
If you are currently facing domestic violence charges, you may be scared and confused. Domestic violence charges can be difficult to understand, and without a skilled Columbia domestic violence lawyer, you could end up having to represent yourself in court.
Talk to a domestic violence lawyer now to learn more about your legal options.
Forms of Domestic Violence
There are numerous types of domestic violence offenses, ranging from physical assault to kidnapping. Other forms of domestic violence can include:
- Attempted or actual rape
- Stalking
- False imprisonment
- Making threats or using intimidation
- Child abuse
It should be noted that the accused person does not necessarily have to be the parent, child, or spouse of the alleged victim. Committing an act of violence against a step-parent, adopted child, live-in partner, household member, or an adult or minor with a physical or mental disability can result in a domestic violence charge.
As stated above, harassment and stalking are common forms of domestic abuse, and if a person is convicted of either charge, they can face fines of up to $5,000, as well as, jail time. Harassment and stalking charges are often subjective, and in many cases, will come down to witness testimony. If a person is accused of stalking or harassing someone else, they should hire a Columbia domestic violence lawyer immediately.
Spousal Abuse
Any act of abuse against a spouse is defined as spousal abuse. The definition not only includes physical violence but emotional and psychological as well. Threats made toward a spouse can also be defined as spousal abuse, as long as both parties are married. When a person is accused of spousal abuse, they can be arrested, charged, and required to post bond. Once enough evidence is amassed, the accused person will stand trial.
Spousal abuse convictions can carry serious penalties including, prison time, legal fines and fees, and probation. Individuals charged with spousal abuse will face even more severe charges if they are believed to have committed an act of domestic violence in the presence of a minor.
Restraining Orders
Occasionally, a person will request a restraining order against an alleged abuser. A restraining or legally prevents a person from contacting or coming in contact with another person, and if it is violated, the violator will face numerous legal penalties. Once a restraining order is filed, the alleged abuser may not call, email, visit, or speak to the person who filed for the order. They may not enter their residence or come within a certain distance of the person, even if they cohabitate.
Restraining orders can be particularly difficult to abide by for individuals with children. If a child resides with the person who was allegedly abused, the person prevented from coming in contact with the alleged victim may not contact the child if they are in the care of the alleged victim.
Talk to a Columbia Domestic Violence Attorney Today
Domestic violence charges can be intimidating, and if you are awaiting trial, you may be worried about your freedom and personal reputation. Worrying is understandable, but you must take legal action quickly if you want to get your charges reduced or dropped. With the right attorney on your side, you may not need to serve time at all.
Talk to a Columbia domestic violence lawyer now to discuss the details of your case.