Dealing with a domestic assault charge is one of the hardest things you’ll go through. The below points would help you prepare for the case.
Calm Down
Know that having a domestic assault charge filed against you does not mean that you’re going to jail. This all depends on how well you handle things. There is light at the end of the tunnel, especially if you’re being wrongfully convicted.
Legal Aid
What would help you avoid a jail sentence? Getting a good lawyer. Do thorough research on the options available, as you want someone who is experienced. Even if the case looks bad, the most skilled representative would be able to clear you, or get you a reduced sentence.
Know that the best domestic abuse lawyer would have handled high-profile cases before. Check the firm’s history. He or she would also be someone you can communicate with well. It may take a year or two before the case even gets to trial.
You might be wondering, how much does it cost to hire a criminal lawyer? This all depends on who you’re working with. But some only make you pay if they win.
Stay Out of Trouble
Whatever you do, it’s better not to get any more charges leveled against you. This would further complicate things, and the judge and jury would look on you unfavorably.
Remember that it can take a while before things get to court – it could be up to a year. If you tend to get in trouble, it’s best to lie low during this period.
Who Will You Speak To?
The case could be serious. Quite a lot of witnesses may be called against you. That’s why you should be careful about what you say and who you speak to. You may tell a friend or family member something that would come back to haunt you. Don’t forget that they’d have to testify under oath, so they probably won’t lie.
Don’t Violate Protections
There would be orders of protection around the victim. You’re not supposed to contact them. Getting a good attorney is important, as they would inform you about the terms of the protection. Even if you violate them in a non-direct way, you could get in trouble.
Violating this protection is a felony charge in many parts of the world.
Instead of a full order of protection, the victim might have a partial one. You’d be able to continue your relationship with them. However, there are a lot of grey areas that you should be aware of. Run through them with the lawyer so that you don’t get in trouble.
Final Thoughts
Domestic assault charges are one of the worst things you could deal with. There are many things you need to keep in mind. One of the most important points is to not get into any trouble. If there is an order of protection against the victim, reaching out to them would violate this, and you’d be apprehended.