Facing charges of domestic violence is not easy, especially when it feels like you are on your own in the situation. You do not have to face charges of domestic violence alone. A Vienna domestic violence lawyer could be on your side, advocating for you.
With a lawyer on your side, you could have someone fighting on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome in the situation. A Vienna lawyer who handles domestic violence cases could also fight to ensure your rights are protected while working to resolve the situation. In English.
There are several ways in which an attorney for domestic violence cases in Vienna could help an individual facing domestic violence charges. An attorney could review the charges and answer questions about what happens next, as well as explain the possible outcomes of either going to trial or working out a plea agreement.
An attorney could also represent a person during all legal proceedings, prepare a defense to the charges, if needed, safeguard an individual’s due process rights, and right for the best possible legal outcome.
Vienna laws prohibiting domestic violence are covered in Title 18.2 of the Code of Virginia. Section 18.2-57.2 specifically addresses assault and battery against a family or household member. A family member can include anyone related to the accused individual, while a household member can include anyone residing in the same home as the accused.
An important aspect of the law to note is that an alleged assault and/or battery against a family member can still be charged as domestic violence even if the family member does not live with the individual facing charges. Further, threatening to cause harm without actually physically harming a family or household member can still constitute domestic violence. A Vienna lawyer for domestic violence could answer specific questions regarding the laws on domestic violence.
The penalties for domestic violence in Vienna vary depending on the severity of the alleged offense and whether there are any prior convictions for domestic violence. Assault and battery against a family or household member is a class one misdemeanor. However, if there two or more prior convictions, a domestic violence charge can be elevated to a class six felony, which is a more serious charge.
Class one misdemeanors are associated with a jail term of 12 months or less and a fine of $2,500 or less. Class six felonies are associated with a sentence of one to five years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500.
When domestic violence charges are filed against a person, an emergency protective order could also be issued, which prohibits an individual charged with domestic violence from having contact with the household or family member who was allegedly assaulted. Making or attempting to make contact could result in additional criminal charges.
A Vienna attorney for domestic violence could answer specific questions about the penalties for domestic violence in Vienna.
Being charged with domestic violence can be devastating and trying to defend yourself against such charges can be daunting. You do not have to face the charges alone, though. A lawyer who handles domestic violence cases could help you fight the charges.
A lawyer could defend you against the charges, advocate for your rights, and fight for the best outcome possible. Call a Vienna domestic violence lawyer today.