Domestic violence allegations are very serious, and they can change someone’s life forever, especially if the accusations are unfounded or untrue. Our firm is here to help. Please continue reading and speak with our experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney to learn more about domestic violence charges in New Jersey and how we can help you fight them. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What is a domestic relationship?
Essentially, a domestic relationship is one that involves those either related by blood or by marriage/a romantic relationship (boyfriend, girlfriend, etc.). This means that your spouse, children, or even an ex-wife are considered to be individuals with whom you have a domestic relationship. If you are accused of committing an act of violence against someone with whom you have a domestic relationship, you will most likely face domestic violence charges.
What does New Jersey’s Prevention of Domestic Violence Act do?
To start, the first thing you must understand is that if someone in your household calls the police regarding an incident of domestic violence, it is almost certain that you will be arrested. Of course, this does not mean that you will be convicted, however, New Jersey is a near zero-tolerance state when it comes to domestic violence accusations, so you will most likely be arrested, and from here, rather obviously, it is critical that you retain the services of an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney who can fight your charges and protect your good name.
Under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, which was enacted in 1991, if you are someone who is accused of domestic abuse, your accuser is permitted to obtain a Temporary Restraining Order against you. Additionally, your accuser is also permitted to seek both civil and criminal penalties against you. Once a Temporary Restraining Order is official, you will be prohibited from seeing your accuser, as well as your child, if you have one with your accuser. Shortly after you are issued a TRO, you will attend a hearing wherein the court will determine whether your TRO should be made permanent. If you cannot prove that you are not guilty of the act of domestic violence, you will most likely be issued a Final Restraining Order. Additionally, if you are guilty of criminal charges, you may face jail time, fines, and other serious penalties. Our firm is here to help you fight these charges and help you go on living a productive, free life. All you have to do is give us a call.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
When someone is charged with a crime, they have a lot to consider. However, we understand that everyone makes mistakes, which is why we are here to help. No matter your circumstances, if you are facing criminal charges, contact the Law Offices of Michael A. Policastro today for the experienced legal counsel you deserve and need.