Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence, defined as any act of violence or abuse committed by a current or former intimate partner, impacts countless individuals and families in Massachusetts. Education raises awareness about the various forms of domestic violence, including physical, emotional, psychological, and financial abuse. It helps individuals recognize abusive behaviors and understand that domestic violence includes other harmful behaviors in addition to physical violence.

This article provides an overview of domestic violence charges in Massachusetts, the legal process, and how Markey Law Partners can help.

Massachusetts law defines domestic violence broadly, encompassing various forms of abuse beyond just physical harm. Here’s a breakdown of what constitutes domestic violence:

• Physical abuse:This includes any intentional act causing physical injury, such as hitting, kicking, grabbing, or choking.
• Emotional abuse:This involves behavior causing emotional distress, such as threats, humiliation, intimidation, or isolation.
• Verbal abuse:This includes harmful or degrading language, name-calling, and insults.
• Financial abuse:This involves controlling someone’s finances, denying them access to resources, or using money as a form of power and control over a person.

Additionally, Massachusetts recognizes restraining orders as a crucial tool to protect victims that experience domestic violence from further abuse. These court orders can prohibit the abuser from contacting, harassing, or coming within a certain distance of the victim and their children.

Facing domestic violence charges can have significant consequences, impacting your life in various ways:

• Criminal penalties:Depending on the severity of the offense, you could face jail time ranging from 5 years in a House of Correction to up to five years in state prison. Fines can also be significant, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. Additionally, you may be sentenced to probation and required to complete mandatory counseling programs.
• Civil penalties:These may include loss of child custody, restrictions on firearm ownership, and potential immigration consequences for non-citizens.
• Impact on employment and housing:A domestic violence conviction can affect your professional life, potentially leading to termination of your employment or difficulty securing employment. You might also face challenges finding safe and secure housing.

Understanding the potential consequences of a domestic violence charge and defending yourself in legal proceedings can be difficult to do on your own. Seeking legal guidance from an experienced domestic violence attorney is crucial to protecting your rights and employing the best defense strategies.

If you are arrested for domestic violence in Massachusetts, here’s a general overview of the legal process:

• Arrest and arraignment:Following an arrest, you will be arraigned in court, where the charges will be formally read, and you will be asked to enter a plea. It is imperative to consult with an attorney before entering any plea.
• Pre-trial:This stage involves gathering evidence, witnesses, and building a defense strategy. Your lawyer will represent you in court hearings and negotiate with the prosecutor.
• Trial:If no plea agreement is reached, the case will go to trial, where the judge or jury will determine guilt or innocence.

As discussed above, restraining orders play a significant role in domestic violence cases. If the court issues a restraining order against you, you must strictly comply with its terms. Violating a restraining order can have severe legal consequences including additional criminal charges.

If you find yourself facing domestic violence charges, here are crucial steps to take:

1. Seek safety: First and foremost, prioritize your safety and the safety of others involved. If you feel threatened or in immediate danger, call 911 or seek shelter at a safe location.
2. Contact an experienced domestic violence attorney: An experienced lawyer can navigate the legal process, explain your rights, explore potential defense strategies, and advocate for your best interests in court.

Domestic violence charges carry significant legal, personal, and social consequences. Handling the legal aspects of these charges requires not only a thorough understanding of the law but also a compassionate and strategic approach to defense. Markey Law Partners offers both, providing expert legal representation infused with empathy and dedication to your case.

Contact Markey Law Partners today for a consultation. Let us defend your rights and protect your future.