Raleigh Domestic Violence Lawyer | Domestic Violence Defense
North Carolina Criminal Defense Attorneys
Raleigh's Most Trusted Domestic Violence Lawyer
If you have been accused of domestic violence, it is important to seek legal assistance from an experienced domestic violence attorney as soon as possible. The penalties for a domestic violence conviction are serious–they can result in jail time, a loss of child custody, and a restraining order against you, just to name a few– and you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side to help you fight the charges.
At The Law Office Of J.M. Kotzker, P.C., our Raleigh domestic violence lawyers have more than three decades of experience handling these types of cases. We know how to investigate the allegations against you and build a strong defense. Our goal is to help you avoid a conviction and keep your family together.
What Is Domestic Violence in North Carolina?
Domestic violence is a serious charge that can have long-lasting repercussions. It involves various forms of abuse in personal relationships, not limited to just physical violence between spouses.
According to North Carolina law, the definition includes any act of physical violence, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, or verbal abuse committed against a family member or household member. Understanding domestic violence laws is crucial as they provide safeguards for individuals in the personal relationship and detail the types of abuse covered.
Domestic crimes like these are often prosecuted as a felony, and those convicted may face significant penalties including jail time, probation, and fines. In addition, these criminal offenses can result in a restraining order being filed or domestic violence protection order, by the domestic violence victim against the offender.
A Raleigh NC domestic violence lawyer understands how to investigate the allegations against you and build a strong defense. Understanding the importance of personal relationships in the context of domestic violence is crucial, as the law in North Carolina recognizes abuse between individuals who share a personal relationship, including dating partners, married couples, former partners, and family members. If you have been charged, it is important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible.
What Are the Penalties for Domestic Violence in NC?
Domestic violence situations are a serious problem in the United States, and the penalties for a domestic violence conviction can be severe.
In North Carolina, the penalties for a domestic violence charge can include time in prison, a fine, or both. The length of the prison time and sentence will depend on the severity of the offense, and whether the alleged victim was seriously injured or killed. A conviction can also result in the loss of all child support, custody rights, and the right to possess firearms.
If you have been accused of this crime, it is important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. The district attorney’s office takes these claims from victims extremely seriously. An experienced domestic violence attorney can help you understand the charges against you, and defend your rights in court.
Misdemeanor Domestic Violence Penalties
If you are convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence, you could face up to 150 days in jail. If the domestic violence victim was seriously injured or endured any physical harm, you could be sentenced to up to two years in jail. You may also be ordered to pay a fine of up to $2,000.
Felony Domestic Violence Penalties
If you are convicted of felony domestic violence, you could face up to 60 months in prison. If the alleged victim was was seriously injured, you could be sentenced to up to 120 months in prison. You may also be ordered to pay a fine of up to $5,000.
Additional Fines And Penalties
In addition to jail time and fines, a domestic violence conviction can also result in a restraining or temporary protective order also being issued against you. In North Carolina, obtaining a domestic violence protective order involves filing a petition, and the court may issue temporary or long-term protective orders, to protect victims from abusive partners.
This domestic violence protection order means you would have to stay away from the victim and have no contact with them.
If you, an intimate partner, or family members are facing domestic violence charges, it is important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help you fight the charges and avoid a conviction.
North Carolina Domestic Violence Cases We Represent
At The Law Office Of J.M. Kotzker, P.C., our attorneys are dedicated to providing expert legal representation in a wide range of domestic violence cases. We understand the complexities and sensitivities involved in these matters and are committed to protecting the rights and interests of our clients. Below are the types of domestic violence cases we represent:
Assault on a Female
Assault on a female is a serious domestic violence charge that involves physical harm or physical injury or the threat of harm against a woman. Our attorneys work diligently to gather evidence, provide legal support, and advocate for protective measures such as restraining orders.
For those accused of assault on a female, we offer robust defense strategies to challenge the allegations, examine the evidence, and protect your legal rights. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients, whether through negotiation or courtroom advocacy.
Stalking
Stalking involves repeated and unwanted attention or harassment that causes fear or concern for one’s safety. For those accused of stalking, we offer comprehensive defense services to address the criminal charges. We analyze the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s claims, and work to present a strong defense to protect your freedom and future.
Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse encompasses a range of harmful behaviors, including physical violence, emotional abuse, financial control, and psychological manipulation. If you are facing accusations of domestic abuse, our legal team can provide a strong defense, examining the details of the case and working to mitigate the charges.
We understand the serious consequences of such allegations and strive to defend your rights and reputation, thoroughly reviewing every aspect of your case to seek the best possible outcome.
Violation of Protective Orders
Violating a domestic violence protective order is a serious offense that can lead to severe legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment. Our attorneys assist clients who have been accused of violating a domestic violence protective order, offering thorough legal defense to challenge the accusations and navigate the complexities of the legal system.
What Are Some Defenses to Domestic Violence Charges in North Carolina?
There are several defenses that can be raised in a domestic violence case. Some of the most common include:
Self-Defense
You may be able to claim self-defense if you used force to protect yourself from harm.
False accusations
Unfortunately, domestic violence accusations are sometimes made falsely in an attempt to gain an advantage between two parties in a divorce or child custody case. If you have been wrongfully accused, we can help you prove it.
Lack of evidence
In order for you to be convicted of domestic violence, the prosecutor must have enough evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is not enough evidence, we may be able to get the charges against you dismissed.
These are just some of the defenses that can be raised in the court proceedings of a domestic violence case. An experienced attorney will know what defense is best for your particular situation.
How Can a Domestic Violence Lawyer in North Carolina Help Me?
If you have been accused of domestic violence, it is important to seek legal assistance from a trusted domestic violence lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and the penalties you are facing. They can also help you build a defense, understand your legal options, and negotiate with prosecutors.
The Raleigh domestic violence attorneys at The Law Office Of J.M. Kotzker, P.C. have more than three decades of experience handling domestic violence cases. We know how to investigate the allegations against you and build a strong defense.
It is also crucial for domestic violence victims to seek legal assistance, as compassionate attorneys can provide support, explain legal definitions and protections under local laws, and offer resources for obtaining safety and support. A NC domestic violence attorney can assist victims by outlining the legal processes involved in securing protection orders and navigating local assistance.
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A Raleigh Domestic Violence Lawyer You Can Trust
If you have been accused of domestic violence, it is important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. Consulting with Raleigh domestic violence attorneys can provide you with the necessary legal support and guidance. We know how to investigate the allegations against you and build a strong defense. Our goal is to help you avoid a conviction and keep your freedom.
We know how to investigate the allegations against you and build a strong defense. Our goal is to help you avoid a conviction and keep your freedom.
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