Orangeburg County Domestic Violence Lawyer

Charges of domestic violence are taken very seriously by judges, law enforcement, and prosecutors throughout the state. These types of allegations can quickly ruin your reputation and create great hardship in your life. You could face criminal penalties such as time in prison, fines, and restrictions placed on your constitutional rights. It is critical that you work with a criminal defense attorney to defend your case and your rights.

An experienced Orangeburg County domestic violence lawyer can provide you a customized defense tailored to your case. Contact our firm today to protect your rights.

What is Domestic Violence?

Different states define domestic violence in different ways. State law defines this offense as an intentional harm or injury that is directed against a member of the defendant’s household. This includes not only actual harm or injury, but also threats of harm or injury. For threats to be defined as domestic violence, the recipient of the threat must believe that that threat can be carried out imminently against them.

Domestic violence charges can lead to potentially serious criminal penalties, but it is important to understand that a charge is not a conviction. Just because a defendant is charged with domestic violence does not necessarily mean that they are guilty of the offense. Every defendant has the right to present a defense to the prosecutor’s charges. A domestic violence attorney in Orangeburg County can help build and present that defense.

Who Is Considered a Household Member?

The definition of a household member is a crucial part of a domestic violence charge in the state. A household member is limited to certain people, include:

• Individuals who were formerly married
• Married couples
• Those who live together
• Persons who share a child in common
• Persons who used to live together

When the person allegedly threatened or harmed is a household member, the possibility of domestic violence charges increases. This can increase the penalties that would otherwise be associated with the same conduct.

Domestic Violence Penalties if Convicted

A conviction for domestic violence can result in very serious penalties for a defendant. These include:

• Domestic Violence of a High and Aggravated Nature: A felony offense with a possible maximum prison sentence for up to twenty years.
• Domestic Violence of the First Degree: A felony offense with a possible maximum prison sentence of up to ten years.
• Domestic Violence of the Second Degree: This misdemeanor charge could result in a prison sentence for up to three years and a fine between $2,500 and $5,000.
• Domestic Violence of the Third Degree: This misdemeanor charge can result in up to ninety days in jail and a fine of between $1,000 and $2,500.

Avoiding these possible penalties is best accomplished with a strong criminal defense. Every case is different, and a specific defense is required to every criminal charge. A skilled criminal defense lawyer has the experience needed to build a customized legal defense that may make a significant difference in the outcome of the case.

Consult a Domestic Violence Attorney in Orangeburg County

A charge of domestic violence is one you must take seriously. A conviction can establish a criminal record that can follow you for many years to come. A proper criminal defense may provide an avenue to help protect your constitutional rights.

Contact an experienced Orangeburg County domestic violence lawyer to begin your criminal defense.