Gastonia Domestic Violence Lawyer

Gastonia Domestic Violence Attorney

When a simple disagreement gets out of hand, it can quickly escalate to shouts, threats, and even blows. However, not everyone charged with domestic violence is actually guilty of this violent crime. Some angry girlfriends accuse their boyfriends of abuse to get even for some offense. One parent may accuse the other of domestic assault to try to win full custody of the children during divorce. If you are facing false accusations, a Gastonia domestic violence defense lawyer can help you.

About The Ratchford Law Firm

Whether you let your temper get out of hand or you were falsely accused of domestic violence, you can count on the team at The Ratchford Law Firm. Our team of Gastonia domestic violence defense attorneys has more than 25 years of experience representing clients charged with everything from simple assault to murder.

Domestic Violence in North Carolina

Domestic violence is a major issue not just in North Carolina, but across the United States. In fact, 32 individuals in the United States experience violence from an intimate partner every minute. Every state has its own laws concerning domestic violence. In North Carolina, domestic violence is defined as causing or attempting to cause bodily harm, threatening to cause bodily harm, or committing sexual violence against a qualifying victim.

Relationships that can serve as a context for domestic violence charges include the following:

• Current or former spouses
• People of opposite sexes who are cohabitating or have cohabitated
• Parents and children, or any individuals acting as parents and children
• People who share a child
• People who are members of the same household now or have been in the past
• People who are dating or have previously dated

Hire a Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Any time you are facing charges for domestic violence, or if you even think charges may be filed against you, you should hire a domestic violence defense lawyer to help you defend your reputation and protect your rights. As your Gastonia domestic violence lawyer, I can represent you at the hearing and make sure your side of the story is heard. The other party has already shared his or her version of events with the police, but now it’s your turn to talk.

Potential Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges

Initial domestic violence charges and the initial statements supporting them often do not tell the whole story. As your attorney, I can work with you to understand your perspective on the events in question and build a robust defense for you. A few potential defenses against domestic violence include the following:

• Self-defense. If a person accused of domestic violence acted in self-defense, their actions may be deemed justified. 
• False allegations. In some cases, domestic violence charges are based on entirely fabricated events. If you can provide some evidence supporting this claim, it may be a viable defense.
• Insufficient evidence. Someone else’s word against yours is not enough to convict you of violent charges. The burden of proof is on the prosecution.

FAQs

Q: Could I Go to Jail for Domestic Violence in North Carolina?

A: Under North Carolina Law, domestic violence can be charged as a Class A1 misdemeanor, which is the most serious level of misdemeanor. A first offense is punishable by up to 60 days in jail, while subsequent offenses could result in 75- or 150-day sentences. In some cases, domestic violence charges come with other violent charges, such as assault with a deadly weapon, which can be a felony charge and almost always results in some jail time.

Q: How Much Does a Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Cost in Gastonia?

A: The cost to hire a domestic violence lawyer in Gastonia is dependent on several factors. Influences on cost include the experience of the attorney, the complexity of the case, and whether the case is litigated in court. During your initial consultation with any lawyer, you should inquire about the costs you could incur.

Q: What Are Some Other Potential Consequences for Domestic Assault Besides Jail?

A: There are other possible legal consequences for a domestic violence conviction besides a jail sentence. Some possibilities include anger management courses, abuser education courses, community service, and probation. Your attorney can give you some educated insight as to the most likely legal consequences and how much discretion a judge might have in your specific case.

Q: Which Court Handles Domestic Violence Cases in Gastonia?

A: In Gastonia, a domestic violence case may be handled by the Gaston County District Court or the Gaston County Superior Court, depending on the level of the charge. Misdemeanor charges are generally the jurisdiction of the District Court, while felony charges go to the Superior Court. Both courts are housed in the same building located at 325 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way in Gastonia.

Georgia Domestic Violence Lawyer

If you need a strong legal defense against domestic violence charges, look no further than The Ratchford Law Firm. We have the knowledge and skills necessary to defend you against charges that could ruin your reputation. Contact us today to discuss your case.