Domestic Violence Lawyers in Cadiz

Cadiz criminal lawyer Sean Logue and the Youngstown Criminal Law Group are here to defend you if you’ve been accused of domestic violence.

Domestic violence charges bring stress and overwhelming emotions, often filled with anger or hurt involving family members or friends. Sean understands the strain these situations can cause. He works diligently to mitigate your anxiety and offer strong representation in court.

Crimes of Domestic Violence

When law enforcement responds to domestic violence calls, they often make at least one arrest, even without evidence or against the desires of an alleged victim. If you’ve been accused, expect to attend court hearings while navigating emotional stress.

Today, those accused of domestic violence face harsher penalties than in the past due to a focus on protecting victims. However, these stricter measures often lead to life-altering consequences for the accused.

Domestic violence covers many actions and behaviors between individuals who live together or are considered family. These behaviors can range from verbal and physical attacks to sexual aggression. Arrests may result from one-time incidents or patterns of repeated behavior.

Domestic Violence Defined

Under Ohio law, you may be arrested and charged with domestic violence if you engage in any of the following actions with a family or household member:

• Recklessly cause physical harm to someone in your household.
• Knowingly attempt or successfully cause harm to a family or household member.
• Threaten someone in such a way that makes them reasonably believe they will be harmed.

It’s crucial to understand that a person may be arrested for domestic violence even in the absence of physical contact.

Domestic Violence Types

There are different forms of domestic violence. Some of the most common charges include:

• Child abuse or neglect.
• Domestic assault or battery.
• Rape and sexual battery.
• Stalking or menacing by stalking.
• Violating a protection order.

Domestic Violence Defenses

Simply explaining your side of the story may not get charges dropped. Often, the account of the alleged perpetrator differs from that of the alleged victim.

An experienced Cadiz criminal lawyer at the Youngstown Criminal Law Group will be equipped with numerous effective defenses to present in court. These defenses may lead to reduced or dismissed charges. Here are some examples of common defenses used in domestic violence cases:

 1. False Allegations

It’s not uncommon for accusations to arise from anger or as a tactic in divorce or custody disputes. For example, a soon-to-be ex-spouse may falsely accuse someone to influence legal proceedings.

2. Self-Defense

Everyone has the right to self-defense, even in domestic situations. If the accused acted to protect themselves in response to aggression from the alleged victim, courts may dismiss charges.

3. Lack of Evidence

If no evidence (such as visible injuries or corroborative proof) supports the charge, the prosecutor may struggle to secure a conviction.

4. Accidental Injury

If the alleged victim’s injuries were self-inflicted or resulted from accidental causes unrelated to the accused’s actions, this defense can be used.

5. Defense of Others

When harm is done to protect another family member from imminent danger, it may be a valid defense.

Penalties for Domestic Violence

Several factors influence sentencing in domestic violence cases, including:

• The severity of the injuries.
• The nature of the victim.
• The accused’s prior criminal record.
• The specific underlying charge.

Domestic violence convictions can range from minor misdemeanors to first-degree felonies. Penalties include fines as low as $150 or as high as $20,000. Jail sentences start at 30 days and can extend up to 11 years, depending on the severity of the charge.

Contact a Cadiz Criminal Defense Lawyer 

Accusations of domestic violence can turn your life upside down. Ensure you have an experienced and knowledgeable ally on your side. Sean Logue, along with the Youngstown Criminal Law Group, provides exceptional representation in domestic violence cases, offering guidance every step of the way.

Whether you need a Cadiz criminal lawyer, Sean Logue is the advocate you want on your side. Call him today at (330) 992-3036.