Fulton Domestic Violence Lawyers

As more and more awareness campaigns have emerged over the years, most everyone in Fulton has taken domestic violence more seriously. The state prosecution, criminal law judges, and even the general public want abusers to face the maximum consequences for domestic violence crimes. Unfortunately, sometimes innocent people are the target of these investigations. If you have been falsely accused, our Fulton domestic violence lawyer can help you beat the charges.

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is a broad term used to refer to a number of different actions made by one person and against another in a domestic relationship. There are many different types of criminal offenses that could constitute domestic violence. All of them are pursued aggressively by law enforcement and those convicted will face some of the harshest consequences. Some of the most common crimes charged as domestic violence are:

• Domestic sex crimes
• Child neglect, abuse, and abandonment
• Kidnapping and false imprisonment
• Stalking
• Elder abuse
• Non-compliance with protection orders

Individuals will face these charges any time they engage in violence with a family member or someone who lives in the same household. However, it is not uncommon for people to be charged with domestic violence after someone else instigated the incident, and the accused was simply defending themselves.

Who are Domestic Victims?

Domestic violence typically occurs between members of one’s family or household. For example, if two friends became involved in a fist fight, that would not be considered domestic violence unless they lived in the same household. Under the law, only certain individuals are considered domestic victims, and they are as follows:

• Current and former spouses
• People who are members of a family, either through blood or marriage
• People who live or have previously lived with the alleged abuser
• People with whom the alleged abuser had a romantic relationship, or
• People who have a child with the alleged abuser

It is important to know what constitutes domestic violence, and who may be a domestic violence victim. There are slight differences in Missouri’s statutes between general assault and domestic assault. If charged with domestic violence, you may face harsher penalties than if you were charged with general assault.

Domestic Violence Has Harsh Penalties for Those Convicted

The penalties for domestic violence vary depending on the type of charge one is facing, as well as their criminal record. Both a misdemeanor and felony charge can carry long prison sentences and large fines for those convicted. If the alleged offense resulted in serious injury, a firearm or other weapon was used, or the accused has prior offenses, sentences will be enhanced.

A domestic violence conviction can also damage your reputation, and much more so than other types of criminal convictions. You may have trouble finding employment and if you are a professional, you may even lose your professional license. It is for these reasons that anyone who has been charged must speak to a Fulton domestic violence lawyer as soon as possible.

Call Our Domestic Violence Lawyer in Fulton for the Help You Need

A domestic violence accusation will result in a full investigation into every detail of your personal life. Scott A. Hamblin is a Fulton domestic violence lawyer who will ensure your rights are upheld and give you the best chance of beating your charges. Call us now or contact us online to request a consultation and to learn more about your legal options.