Domestic Violence Attorneys Near Me

Domestic Violence Attorneys Near Me

If you are facing a domestic violence charge in Ohio, it is a serious matter that requires your serious attention. A domestic violence charge means that not only is your home in an uproar but that, on top of everything else, you are also facing a criminal charge. If this is the challenging situation you find yourself in, don’t wait to reach out to an experienced Ohio domestic violence attorney. 

The Charge of Domestic Violence

In the State of Ohio, the charge of domestic violence involves either violence or the threat of violence against a member of one’s family or a member of one’s household. The following both represent acts of domestic violence:

• Knowingly or recklessly causing a member of one’s family or household to suffer physical harm
• Threatening a member of one’s family or household with physical force or causing the other person to fear an imminent physical attack.

A domestic violence charge can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending upon the circumstance involved, the degree of injury caused, and whether or not the alleged offender has any prior domestic violence convictions.  

Considering the Terms of Domestic Violence

In the definition of domestic violence, the following term definitions apply:

• A knowing act is one that the person engages in with intention.
• A reckless act is one that the person engages in without regard for the consequences involved – or for the other person’s safety. In other words, a domestic violence charge can apply even if the accused didn’t mean to hurt the member of his or her family or household (but, instead, did so out of lack of regard for the potential consequences of his or her actions). 

All of the following apply when it comes to identifying a member of one’s family or household:

• One’s spouse
• One’s former spouse
• A domestic partner with whom the offender resided in the five years prior
• a parent
• A foster parent
• A child
• A member of one’s extended family
• A parent or child of the alleged offender’s spouse, former spouse, or domestic partner 
• An extended family member of one’s spouse, former spouse, or domestic partner

The other parent of one’s child (whether or not the accused and the victim have ever resided in the same home) is also considered a family member in Ohio (for purposes of domestic violence charges). 

When Domestic Violence Ends in Harm

When the domestic violence charge involves harming a member of one’s family or household, it is a first-degree misdemeanor. If, however, the accused has a prior domestic violence conviction or knew that the victim was pregnant, the charge can be bumped to a felony (the degree of the felony is determined by the seriousness of the circumstances involved). 

Turn to an Experienced Ohio Criminal Defense Attorney for the Legal Guidance You Need

If a domestic violence charge has been levied against you, the practiced Ohio criminal defense attorneys at The VanNoy Firm have the experience, resources, and legal insight that you are looking for. Your case matters, so please don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us for more information today.