Jefferson Parish Domestic Violence Lawyer
Dedicated Domestic Violence Lawyers in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana
Domestic violence, also known as domestic abuse battery in Louisiana, is a very serious offense in the state. Domestic violence charges are classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the specific facts of a case. If you have been charged or you are the subject of a protective order, it is critical that you speak with a Jefferson Parish domestic violence lawyer who can prepare the defense you need.
What is Domestic Violence in Jefferson Parish?
Domestic violence can involve a wide range of verbal, physical, or sexual offenses. For domestic violence charges to apply, the abuse must take place in a domestic setting such as in a domestic partnership or marriage. Household members, family members, and dating partners can all be victims of domestic violence.
Some of the most common examples of domestic violence are as follows:
- Intimidation through destroying property, displaying weapons, and threatening gestures
- Emotional abuse including manipulation, humiliation, and name-calling
- Sexual abuse such as forced sexual interactions without consent, causing harm during sexual acts, and intentionally spreading STIs
- Physical abuse including pushing, punching, slapping, and strangling
- Preventing victims from contacting law enforcement or pursuing medical treatment
- Prohibiting victims from eating or drinking
Penalties for Domestic Violence Convictions
Like many different crimes, the penalties for a domestic violence conviction will vary depending on the specific facts of a case. For example, those convicted of a first offense may face a minimum of 48 hours in jail up to a maximum of six months. Still, when severe injury occurs due to burning, defendants can still face up to 50 years in prison.
Domestic abuse aggravated assault involves the use of a dangerous weapon to have been used during the crime. A conviction can result in up to five years in prison and a maximum fine of $5,000.
Another penalty in any domestic violence case is the possibility of a protective order being issued against you. This can prevent you from contacting your accuser, and even your children. Violating the provisions of any protective order will have additional serious consequences. A Jefferson Parish domestic violence lawyer can help you understand the terms of such an order, and may even be able to help you modify the terms if contact is necessary.
Defenses to Domestic Violence
Being charged with domestic violence is a very serious matter. Fortunately, there are defenses you can use to fight back against the charges. Some of the most common defenses in these cases are as follows:
- Lack of intent
- Self-defense
- False allegations
- Illegal search and seizures
Contact Our Domestic Violence Lawyer in Jefferson Parish. We Can Help!
Being charged with domestic violence is an emotional situation and you should not fight this legal battle on your own. At the Law Office of Robert S. Toale, our Jefferson Parish domestic violence lawyer can help you through this difficult time, advise you of your options, and prepare the strongest defense possible for your case. Call or text us now at (504) 368-8440 or chat with us online to request a free review of your case with our experienced Jefferson Parish violent crimes attorney.