Have you been arrested for domestic violence in Frederick, Maryland? Not only are these serious criminal charges, but these charges also carry an enormous social stigma. Even if you are ultimately acquitted of the charges, your reputation may be tarnished forever.
Additionally, domestic violence charges can seriously damage your chances of success in any pending custody disputes. Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys can help you fight to protect your future. Contact us today at (301) 381-1993 to schedule a free case evaluation with a Frederick domestic violence lawyer.
How Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help If You’re Arrested For Domestic Violence in Frederick, MD
Clients in Frederick, Maryland, have come to trust Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys for all their criminal defense needs, including defense against assault, theft crimes, and even homicide.
Our experienced team is ready to help you put together a defense to your domestic violence charges today. Our team has over 125 years of combined experience fighting for the rights of the accused.
Some ways we can help you include:
- Fully investigating the facts of your case to determine whether domestic violence charges are appropriate
- Advising you of your legal rights and offering you realistic expectations about the possible outcomes
- Gathering all available evidence that can help prove your side of the story. This may include surveillance footage, medical records, or witness testimony.
- Negotiating a plea deal with the prosecution that could get you lesser charges or a reduced sentence
- Fiercely arguing your case at trial and attacking all the weak points in the prosecution’s case
We understand that this may be one of the most difficult times in your life. Let us put our experience to work for you and help protect you against these charges. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Frederick domestic violence lawyer.
Overview of Domestic Violence in Maryland
Domestic violence in Maryland typically involves any type of behavior that inflicts harm or fear on a member of your household.
Household members may include:
- Spouse or ex-spouse
- Dating partner
- Child
- Other family members related by blood or marriage
- Other co-inhabitants
As you can see, domestic violence can be present in many types of relationships. Some people believe that it can only occur between spouses, but that is not true.
It is also important to note that domestic violence in Maryland is not a standalone charge. Instead, the underlying charges of assault, stalking, harassment, or violating a protective order may be labeled as “domestically related” when they involve household members or intimate partners.
What Are the Penalties For Domestic Violence in Frederick, Maryland?
If you are convicted of domestic violence, you could face some serious penalties. Understanding the penalties for domestic violence may help you through the legal process.
Some of the most common penalties for domestic violence convictions include:
- Jail time: If you are convicted of domestic violence, there is a good chance you could spend time behind bars. The amount of time you spend in jail could range from a few weeks to more than 25 years. It depends on the specific facts of your case.
- Fines: You may be ordered to pay monetary fines as part of your penalty. These fines can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. They are intended as a punishment that will help deter that type of behavior in the future.
- Probation: Probation is a common penalty in these cases, used to avoid jail time. You will likely be required to adhere to specific rules set out by the judge, such as checking in with a probation officer and avoiding additional legal trouble.
- Restitution: In some cases, you might be forced to pay financial restitution to the victim. This restitution may compensate them for their medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Domestic violence classes: Domestic violence classes might be required after a conviction. These classes can help you understand the underlying causes of domestic violence and how to avoid this type of behavior in the future. These classes are often a mandatory requirement to your probation terms.
As you can see, domestic violence can carry some stiff penalties. This is why you should get the help of an experienced domestic violence lawyer right away.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Accused of Domestic Violence?
When you face criminal charges, you will be given an opportunity to defend yourself. There are several potential defenses that may be used in domestic violence cases, including:
Lack of Evidence
Sometimes, criminal charges may be filed even when the evidence is lacking. Your attorney may be able to argue that sufficient evidence does not exist to support the charges. This could allow you to get the charges reduced or even dropped.
Procedural Issues
There are certain processes and rules that must be followed during criminal proceedings. The prosecution’s failure to follow the rules could allow you an opportunity to ask for the charges to be dropped.
Self Defense
You may be able to prove through witness testimony, surveillance footage, or other means that you were defending yourself. Self-defense can be a rock-solid defense when it can be proven.
The team at Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys can help you put on the best defense to your domestic violence charges.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Frederick Domestic Violence Lawyers
Facing domestic violence charges can be scary, especially since these charges can have a significant impact on your life, work, and family. You need an experienced lawyer in Frederick, Maryland, who knows how to properly defend you against these types of charges.
Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys as soon as possible to let us get started putting together a winning strategy for your case. Schedule your free consultation with a Frederick domestic violence lawyer now.