Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys in Michigan

Did you know that Michigan courts aggressively prosecute domestic violence cases, even if the domestic violence victim wants to drop the charges? This is one of the many reasons you should immediately speak with one of our Michigan domestic violence defense attorneys if you’re facing charges.

While aggressive domestic violence prosecution is meant to ensure that dangerous individuals and/or habitual offenders are held accountable for their actions, it also means that if you’re facing domestic violence charges, you should seek help now from an experienced criminal defense lawyer familiar with how these cases are prosecuted.

Facing domestic violence charges? Unhappy with your current attorney? Request a free consultation now.

Domestic Violence Penalties

Domestic violence carries harsh penalties under Michigan law; two people don’t need to be married for a domestic violence charge to take place. The penalties include:

• A misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail and a $500 fine with no prior assault convictions
• A felony punishable by up to two years in prison, a $2,500 fine, or both.

Testimony by the alleged victim(s) can be extremely persuasive to both a judge and a jury, whether it’s truthful or not. If the alleged victim had injuries that required medical attention, the penalties can be even more severe.

Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys

Our domestic violence defense attorneys believe everyone is innocent until proven guilty and that everyone deserves high-quality legal representation.

The prosecutor must make their case beyond a reasonable doubt in order to win.

Skilled domestic violence defense attorneys can instinctively identify what the holes are in the prosecution, and what weaknesses are needed to overcome to get the best outcome for you and your family.

For example, are there witnesses to the alleged incident that can provide solid testimony?

Or is it more of a “he said, she said” case, which would make it tougher for the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt?

Every marriage/relationship has its issues.

That doesn’t mean that ordinary issues should carry legal consequences.

Domestic Violence Frequently Asked Questions

• Can a Person Conviction of Domestic Violence Carry a Firearm?
• Five Unexpected Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
• Top Four Domestic Violence Defense Strategies 
• Questions About Self Defense
• What is the Legal Proof Required for a Domestic Violence Case in Michigan?
• Simple vs. Aggravated Assault
• Statute of Limitations on Domestic Assault Cases
• Getting a Domestic Violence off Your Record

What are the Consequences of Domestic Violence Charges?

Domestic violence occurs when two people are in a domestic relationship (e.g. a married couple) and one individual uses emotional, physical, or sexual abuse to incite fear in the other individual or to restrict the other individual’s freedom.

Due to the nature of the relationship between the individuals in question, these cases are almost always intense and emotionally charged.

You may find yourself feeling overwhelmed.

The best way to avoid child protective services and law enforcement involvement is to seek help.

Parenting classes, anger management classes, individual therapy and couple’s therapy, such as the ones provided by Starfish Family Services, are all community-based services that promote keeping a family together.

If charged with domestic assault, it’s important that a competent domestic violence defense attorney is hired immediately to start navigating the court system – both criminal and civil child-related cases. Here are the typical events that follow a domestic violence arrest:

• The accused is almost always court-ordered to stay away from the victim. Thus, if you share a home with the accuser, you may not return to the home.
• If you require items from the home you share with the accuser, police officers will need to be present to avoid additional charges against you.
• If you and the accuser share children supervised visits will need to be arranged.

All of these conditions, however, may be modified with the right representation.

Always Take Domestic Violence Charges Seriously

A domestic violence conviction can result in substantial fines and possible jail time.

Since a conviction comes with such heavy penalties, it’s essential that you take any domestic violence charges that are brought against you seriously, right from the start.

As many of these cases do go to trial, it’s also crucial that you find a domestic violence defense attorney with both specific training and extensive trial experience.

When looking for a lawyer, you want one who:

• Is tenacious and aggressive
• Is well-established in the community
• Has specific training as a trial attorney
• Is familiar and up-to-date with all current laws
• Takes a detail-oriented approach to your defense
• Has a good track record of success with previous cases
• Has the support of an experienced, knowledgeable legal team
• Has positive relationships with the courts and other attorneys

Facing domestic violence charges? Unhappy with your current attorney? Request a free consultation now.