Domestic Violence Lawyers in Warren, Trumbull County, OH
Warren criminal lawyer Sean Logue is here to defend you against domestic violence charges.
Understanding Domestic Violence Charges
Domestic violence charges can be overwhelming, often leaving everyone involved feeling angry and stressed. Sean Logue recognizes the pressure you’re facing and strives to ease your anxiety by providing robust legal representation in court.
What Constitutes Domestic Violence?
Police responding to domestic violence calls typically arrest at least one individual, regardless of the presence or absence of evidence, or the wishes of the alleged victim regarding pressing charges. The accused will have to endure court hearings and other related stressors.
In recent times, the consequences for those accused of domestic violence have become more severe. These measures aim to protect victims but often result in significant, long-term impacts on the accused.
Definition of Domestic Violence in Ohio
The term “domestic violence” encompasses various actions and behaviors involving individuals who live together or form a family unit. This includes sexual, verbal, and physical attacks. Offenders may be arrested for isolated incidents or for a history of such behavior.
According to the Ohio Revised Code, you can be charged with domestic violence if you:
- Recklessly causing physical harm to a family or household member.
- Knowingly attempt to cause or actually cause harm to a family or household member.
- Threaten a family or household member with force, making them believe you will cause them physical harm.
It’s important to note that you can be arrested for domestic violence even without physically touching the alleged victim.
Types of Domestic Violence Charges
There are several types of domestic violence charges, including:
- Child abuse or neglect
- Domestic assault/battery
- Rape
- Sexual battery
- Menacing by stalking
- Violating a protection order
Defending Against Domestic Violence Charges
Simply telling your side of the story is often not enough to get domestic violence charges dropped. A knowledgeable Warren OVI lawyer with experience in these cases will have various defenses at their disposal and may be able to convince the court to reduce or dismiss the charges. Common defenses include:
- False Allegations: Sometimes, an ex-spouse or partner may falsely accuse the alleged offender to punish them or gain advantage in a civil case (divorce, child support, child custody).
- Self-Defense: Individuals have the right to defend themselves in domestic violence situations. Courts may dismiss cases if the violence was instigated by the alleged victim’s actions.
- Lack of Evidence: Without proof of domestic violence (such as injuries or other evidence), the prosecutor may struggle to convict the accused.
- Accidental Injury: If the alleged victim was injured due to their own negligence or other unrelated causes, the accused might not be held responsible.
- Defense of Others: If the alleged offender injured another family member to protect someone else from harm, this could be used as a defense.
Penalties for Domestic Violence
When sentencing an individual for domestic violence, judges consider factors such as the severity of injuries, the type of victim, the offender’s criminal record, and the nature of the charge.
Domestic violence convictions in Ohio can range from minor misdemeanors to first-degree felonies, with fines starting at $150 and going up to $20,000. Jail time ranges from 30 days to 11 years, depending on the severity of the charge.
Sean Logue is the Warren criminal lawyer you want by your side when facing domestic violence accusations. Contact him at (330) 992-3036.