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Spotsylvania Domestic Violence Lawyer

A person being charged with domestic violence may worry about facing a possible jail or prison sentence. A Spotsylvania domestic violence lawyer could help you fight the charges and work to attain the best possible legal resolution.

Trying to fight charges of domestic violence on your own might be overwhelming and you could be uncertain how to best defend yourself. There is no need to face the charges on your own. A seasoned criminal attorney could provide legal representation and help you with your case.

How a Criminal Attorney Could Help

A lawyer could help a person facing charges of domestic violence in many ways, from answering questions about the charges to providing legal advice. An attorney could also assist person navigating the legal system by providing legal representation during all legal proceedings and fighting to help them achieve an optimal legal outcome.

Family Violence Laws in Spotsylvania

Domestic violence laws in Spotsylvania are outlined in several sections of the Code of Virginia. Offenses involving assault and battery against either a family member or a member of the household are considered to be incidents of domestic violence or family abuse. The law defines a family member or a household member as any of the following:

  • A spouse or former spouse
  • A person’s children or stepchildren
  • A person’s siblings
  • In-laws or other relatives
  • A co-parent with who a person shares a child
  • Any cohabitant who has lived in the same residence within the past 12 months

The law further specifies that acts of domestic violence could be committed against family members who do not currently reside in the same home. Even threatening to inflict physical harm on a member of the family or household is considered family abuse or domestic violence under the law. A Spotsylvania attorney could explain domestic violence laws in more detail and answer specific questions about the law.

Potential Penalties a Defendant May Face

Committing assault, battery, or any type of abuse against a family member or member of the household could be classified as a class one misdemeanor. When there are multiple prior convictions for domestic violence, then the charges may be elevated to a class six felony, which could carry more severe penalties upon conviction.

An emergency protective order could also be issued to the defendant who may also be facing punishment for a domestic violence conviction. A protective order could prohibit a person from having contact with the family or household member allegedly assaulted. A person under a protective order may also lose the right to buy a firearm during the duration of the order.

The penalties for conviction of a class one misdemeanor are a fine of up to $2,500, a jail sentence of up to 12 months, or both. The penalties for conviction of a class six felony are a fine of up to $2,500, a prison term of one to five years, or both. A Spotsylvania lawyer could explain the possible domestic violence penalties associated with the specific charges a person is facing.

Let a Spotsylvania Domestic Violence Lawyer Assist You

Facing domestic violence charges could be a daunting task if you are on your own without legal counsel. Determining the best way to fight the charges on your own may be challenging and difficult. A lawyer who handles domestic violence cases could provide the legal assistance you need to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

It may not be advised to fight charges of domestic violence by yourself. Seek legal representation and gain the confidence of knowing there is someone on your side fighting on your behalf. Contact a Spotsylvania domestic violence lawyer today.