Puyallup Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
Domestic violence is often regarded as one of the worst things a person could be charged with. These charges often carry a heavy social stigma, and it is crucial that you put up the best defense possible. An attorney can help you challenge whatever charges you are facing.
One method for fighting domestic violence charges is to highlight the prosecutor’s lack of evidence. If they do not have enough evidence to meet their burden of proof, we might get an acquittal or convince the judge to dismiss the case. You might instead have acted in self-defense, or perhaps the person who accused you of domestic violence is not telling the truth. Our legal team can help you mount the most effective defense possible.
Get a private case review by calling the Law Offices of Smith & White at (253) 203-1645 and talking to our domestic violence defense lawyers.
How Do I Defend Myself Against Domestic Violence Charges?
Fighting charges of domestic violence might not be easy, as many are quick to believe victims without even hearing out the defendant. However, your attorney can help you put up a strong defense, as is your right.
Lack of Evidence
Prosecutors must be able to prove criminal charges beyond a reasonable doubt. This is an incredibly difficult burden of proof to satisfy, and prosecutors do not always have enough evidence, even if they think they do. If the evidence is so insufficient that there is no way the prosecutor can meet the burden of proof, our domestic violence defense lawyers can request that the judge dismiss the case.
False Accusations
People who accuse others of domestic violence are not always telling the truth. They might be exaggerating a dispute or argument, or they might fail to acknowledge that they were the initial aggressor. Still, others might completely fabricate accusations just to get someone they do not like in serious trouble. In such cases, your attorney can help you uncover evidence of the truth and expose the awful lies.
Self-Defense
In many cases, the defendant was actually defending themselves from the use of force or violence from the supposed victim. Claiming self-defense can be difficult, but it may be a complete defense that negates criminal liability. Proving that the victim attacked you and you needed to use force to protect yourself requires that we present evidence showing how the victim was the initial aggressor and that force was necessary.
FAQs About Dealing with Domestic Violence Charges in Puyallup
What is a Domestic Violence Crime?
Domestic violence is not a single crime but a sort of label that may be applied to crimes that occur under specific conditions. To be charged with domestic violence, the victim of the alleged crime must have a certain relationship with the defendant. They must be a cohabitant, family member, spouse, child, or romantic partner.
What is a Protection Order in a Domestic Violence Case?
A protection order is a court order that prevents a defendant from having any contact with certain people. Protection orders usually keep defendants away from alleged victims, but they can also prevent defendants from seeing children they share with the alleged victim. Protection orders may be temporary or permanent.
Can I See My Kids if I am Charged with Domestic Violence?
Maybe. If you are charged with domestic violence, there is a good chance that the court issued a protection order to prevent you from contacting the alleged victim. If you have kids with the alleged victim, they may be included in the protection order. This means you might not be able to see your kids without violating a court order and risking serious legal penalties, at least temporarily.
How Do I Challenge Domestic Violence Charges in Puyallup?
You can challenge domestic violence charges in many ways. Some common methods include pointing to weak or insufficient evidence, arguing that the person who accused you is lying, or claiming self-defense. The best defense depends on your circumstances, and you should get help from an experienced attorney.
What Are the Consequences of Domestic Violence Charges?
Domestic violence often makes criminal penalties much worse. Your charges may be increased to a more severe grading that carries harsher penalties. It can also affect how the sentencing guidelines apply to your case, and you may risk longer prison sentences. Exactly how domestic violence affects your charges depends on your specific charges.
When Should I Call a Lawyer About Domestic Violence Charges?
Call a lawyer for help as soon as possible. If you are arrested, remain calm and try not to resist the police. Once you are in custody, the police may want to question you about the alleged offense. You have the right to have a lawyer present during questioning, and you should invoke this right immediately.
What if Someone Falsely Accuses Me of Domestic Violence?
False accusations are unfortunately not unusual in domestic violence cases. A spouse or romantic partner might make false accusations to retaliate against you out of anger. Someone else might make a false accusation simply because they do not like you. In that case, your best defense may be to focus on proving that they are lying.
How Can I Explain My Side of the Story to the Police in a Domestic Violence Case?
You should not try to explain your side of the situation to the police unless you have a lawyer present. Anything you say can and will be used against you, and your attorney can help you explain yourself in a way that is concise, correct, and avoids unnecessary incrimination. You also have the right to remain silent, and you do not have to say anything at all.
Ask Our Puyallup Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys for Legal Help
Get a private case review by calling the Law Offices of Smith & White at (253) 203-1645 and talking to our domestic violence defense lawyers.