Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior identified in a relationship to get or keep control of another. The term relationship does not have to mean girlfriend, boyfriend, husband or wife. It can include any family member or person whom has in intimate relationship of some sort, such as children, cohabitants or a family member.
An example of domestic abuse on a spouse would be if one spouse was physically abusive to the other. Domestic violence does not have to be physical; it includes neglect and verbal abuse also. This would be the same in any situation with someone you were close with.
As most laws the different states have different penalties and definitions, so more broad and some stricter. During sentencing for domestic violence cases, there are many things considered, prior to the sentence being ordered. Some factors are:
- Is this a pattern or an isolated incident.
- Was there children involved.
- Is there a past history or previous violent charges.
- If there was injury, was it severe.
- Have they voluntarily sought professional help with control issues.
The penalties for the charge depend on the answers to the above questions. Every situation is not the same, so as every other law, the penalties are not the same. Here is a list of potential penalties one can face, when charged with domestic abuse charges (keep in mind they can be in combination with one another):
- Jail time.
- Community services hours.
- Fines and or restitution.
- Restraining orders against defendants, limiting or preventing contact.
- Anger management classes.
- Batterers Intervention programs.
Don’t’ take the chance with a public defender when it comes to domestic violence charges, the stakes are too high. A local private attorney will help you fight the charges and if children are involved maintain the ability to contact them, as long as there is no threat of danger. Domestic violence cases are serious and you seriously need to get a capable attorney.
