Being accused of domestic violence in New Jersey by a spouse or partner can be a scary experience. Regardless of whether you committed the act, you have the right to defend yourself and hire an attorney. You have the right to remain silent, and more importantly, you don’t have to confess when even the arresting officers interrogate you extensively. Check for a domestic violence lawyer near me as soon as possible. Here are some other details worth knowing.
Understand the consequences
When it comes to domestic violence cases, the consequences are just as hard as any other offense concerning those who are unprotected. For first-degree indictable crimes, you could face up to ten years in prison with fines up to $200,000. If this is a second-degree indictable crime, jail time could be between five to ten years, with fines up to $150,000. For disorderly person offences, one could spend up to six months in jail with fines up to $10,000. If there is a restraining order against you, do not violate it, as the consequences could be harder.
Will domestic violence affect your divorce?
In all likelihood, charges of domestic violence will impact the divorce proceedings. For instance, if your partner or spouse is able to prove that you had threatened them or have committed physical abuse, the chances are high that you may not get custody of the kids. Also, there are other aspects, like moving out of the house, which may impact your life.
Do you need an attorney?
The short answer is yes. When it comes to defending yourself in a domestic violence case, you should always have a criminal lawyer on your side. Ensure that you check their work profile and credentials, including the domestic violence cases they have handled so far. A good attorney will check all allegations, find out more through investigation, and take all necessary steps to determine the right defense strategy for your case.
How much will domestic violence lawyers charge in NJ?
The answer depends on several factors, but in most situations, there will be a retainer fee and an hourly rate. You must pay more for serious crimes and allegations, especially if you hire an experienced attorney. Do not take domestic violence charges for granted, and find a lawyer who cares and has the time to work on your case.
Make a list of top law firms and ensure you call for the attorney’s help as soon as you have charges or are arrested.
