If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence (DV), or if you have simply made a mistake, there can be very serious consequences if you are convicted. The penalties for DV have increased, and a conviction can follow you as you apply for jobs–or even cost you the job you have now. The most important thing you can do for yourself is to hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer in Detroit who is knowledgeable and experienced in DV cases to vigorously defend you against these charges.
Many people charged with DV experience a considerable amount of humiliation, especially if they are arrested in a public place. Your family, neighbors or coworkers may have witnessed the arrest. You may already have been put on leave by your employer or have had a restraining order filed against you. It may be tempting to try to handle things on your own, hoping to make the situation go away as quickly as possible.
Often people who try to handle serious charges on their own wind up with more serious convictions than those who engage a seasoned attorney to fight on their behalf. Hiring a Detroit domestic violence lawyer means having a strong advocate to defend you. An experienced attorney may be able to get the charges reduced or even dropped, possibly saving you from losing your job or your right to see your children. If the charges are reduced or dismissed, you may also avoid having a serious conviction on your permanent record.
An experienced Detroit domestic violence lawyer can work on your behalf in several different ways. His or her knowledge of the justice system and local courts means that your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor and, in the best-case scenario, get the charges dropped before your case ever goes to court. If it does go to trial, your attorney will attempt to negotiate a plea deal, where you are able to plead to a lesser charge. If that option fails, your attorney will put on the strongest defense possible to the judge or jury.
What to expect when you contact a defense attorney
Once you contact an attorney, you will have an initial conversation, free of charge, to discuss the circumstances of your case. You will have an opportunity to ask questions. The lawyer will advise you on the best course of action and discuss their role and the costs associated with defending you. If you engage the lawyer to take on your case, they will discuss your situation in more detail to find out what happened, the strength of the case against you and any special circumstances. You will be in charge at all times. The lawyer will explain all of the options available to you and make recommendations, but ultimately you will be the one to decide which steps the lawyer will take.
Don’t wait–if you have been charged with domestic violence, contact a Domestic Violence Attorney in Detroit now to find out how you can best defend yourself.