There are few charges more damaging to a reputation and a family than those of domestic violence. Unfortunately, many people go on to obtain criminal records and have their family life destroyed as a result of a false domestic violence charge. Fighting these charges is an uphill battle, however, with the help of an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney, it does not have to be. Please continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable legal team to learn more about domestic violence charges and how we can help. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What is New Jersey’s Prevention of Domestic Violence Act?
The Prevention of Domestic Violence Act of 1991 is designed to better protect victims of domestic violence by giving them two options of relief: civil relief, as well as criminal relief. Civil relief generally results in a restraining order, while criminal relief allows the alleged victim to press criminal charges against the abuser. In New Jersey, domestic relationships are defined as follows:
- Married parties
- Separated parties
- Divorced parties
- People who live together
- Dating couples
- Individuals who share a child or children
Domestic violence, under New Jersey law, is defined as the following crimes committed against a person of which you have a domestic relationship with:
- Simple assault
- Harassment
- Sexual assault
- Stalking
- Terroristic threats
- Homicide
What happens if I am convicted of a domestic violence charge?
If you are charged with domestic violence, you will first get a temporary restraining order against the victim. Then, this order may or may not be made permanent shortly thereafter. Finally, if the alleged victim chooses to press charges, you may spend years in jail, as well as have to pay heavy fines for any wrongdoing you are found guilty of committing. In addition, you will also obtain a criminal record, which may follow you for years down the road.
What happens if I am falsely accused of domestic violence?
If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, you need an attorney who can prove that you are innocent. We may do so by saying you did not know what you were doing, you were doing it in self-defense, or by simply proving that you did not do what you are accused of at all. The bottom line is that if you are accused of domestic violence, you need an experienced, aggressive criminal defense attorney on your side.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
Thomas DeMarco & Associates, LLC is an experienced Camden County criminal defense law firm located in Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey. We understand how potentially damaging a criminal can be, which is why we pride ourselves in our willingness to fight for our client’s rights. Our firm handles all criminal matters and is ready to provide you with our knowledgeable legal counsel. Do not hesitate to contact our firm to discuss your legal situation.
