In Connecticut, police and prosecutors pursue domestic violence allegations aggressively. The emphasis is on protecting people who are vulnerable to domestic abuse rather than hearing the explanations of the accused.

When you face domestic violence charges, reach out to a defense lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case. At Ruane Attorneys, we understand the prosecution of domestic violence cases in Bridgeport and can help you navigate the process. Our legal team will work to protect your rights and best interests.

The Family Services Officer Interview

People who have close relationships can have heated disagreements and sometimes get caught up in their emotions. Domestic violence arrests often arise from these situations. Many people facing domestic violence charges have never been arrested before, and prosecutors and courts are often uninterested in punishing people who let their emotions get the better of them one time. However, they are committed to protecting the victims of domestic violence and preventing future incidents.

At the arraignment, which happens the next business day after the arrest, the defendant will have an interview with a Family Services Officer. The interview will cover what triggered the incident and might also address alcohol and drug use and the relationship between the defendant and the alleged victim. The interview could significantly impact how aggressively a prosecutor pursues criminal penalties in a domestic violence case, making it essential to consult a Bridgeport attorney.

Alternatives to Criminal Prosecution

If the alleged victim did not suffer a significant injury and the accused has no lengthy or violent criminal history, it is often possible to work with the domestic violence prosecutors and judges to resolve the case without a criminal record. However, the courts will impose conditions during the pendency of the case. Courts often refer defendants to services or interventions authorized under Connecticut General Statute §46b-38c based on the Family Services Officer’s recommendation.

Domestic Violence Programs in Bridgeport

Many service providers offer programs such as anger management training, substance abuse screening and counseling, and mental health counseling to defendants facing domestic violence charges. These programs typically require many weeks of attendance. The provider reports to the court when a defendant completes the program. The judge dismisses the charge if the accused has met their obligations.

These programs help many people learn valuable skills and avoid criminal prosecution. However, the Family Services Officer will not always recommend these services. In some cases, the accused person might travel for work or be otherwise unable to complete one of the approved programs. In these situations, our Bridgeport attorneys could negotiate with the prosecutors for private therapy or domestic violence counseling that aligns with the defendant’s schedule and obligations.

Victim Cooperation in Domestic Violence Prosecution

A domestic violence arrest and prosecution could go forward without an alleged victim’s cooperation. The law requires police to arrest someone if they respond to a domestic violence incident and there is probable cause to believe a crime or physical confrontation occurred. The police must make an arrest even when the alleged victim asks them not to.

Similarly, prosecutors will monitor a case before dismissing it, even if the victim asks them to close it. The judge usually imposes conditions on the accused at the arraignment. Prosecutors are unlikely to dismiss charges until an accused completes the court-ordered obligations.

A prosecutor will not drop a domestic violence case on the alleged victim’s request. However, a victim who demands that the accused face criminal consequences could influence the direction of the prosecution. Regardless of the situation, our lawyers could explore every option for resolving the charges and protecting the defendant’s rights during the domestic violence prosecution process.

Consult a Bridgeport Attorney if You Face Prosecution for Domestic Violence

Do not try to handle domestic violence charges without legal advice. The state devotes considerable resources to investigating and prosecuting these cases. You face significant penalties and restrictions upon conviction.

Contact an attorney familiar with the prosecution of Bridgeport domestic violence cases. At Ruane Attorneys, we can work to resolve the matter without criminal sanctions. Call our firm today for a consultation.