All allegations of causing harm to another are serious matters. This includes incidents involving alleged violence as well as threats. In most criminal cases, punishment can only result from a conviction in court. However, the repercussions can affect your life long before trial when the alleged victim is your spouse.

The accuser’s status as a family member means you may face consequences quickly after an arrest. For instance, the court can create a restraining order that impacts every aspect of your life. When facing these charges, consulting with a Bridgeport spousal abuse lawyer at Ruane Attorneys should be a priority. Our lawyers can explain the issues in your case and develop a defense tailored to the situation.

Criminal Charges in Spousal Abuse Cases

Spousal abuse is not a specific criminal offense in Connecticut. Instead, courts use this label to describe an incident allegedly impacting the defendant’s spouse. These fall under the umbrella of domestic violence cases.

Various criminal charges may be at the core of spousal abuse accusations. These typically include allegations of causing or threatening harm. Common examples include:

• Assaults
• Harassment or stalking
• Sex crimes
• Kidnapping

Our Bridgeport attorneys can explore the facts that led to a spousal abuse arrest and present a defense in court against these criminal accusations. This could help to reduce the severity of punishment or even force a court to issue an acquittal.

Differences in Intimate Partner Violence Cases

The identity of the alleged victim can impact how a criminal case proceeds. Allegations of domestic violence may trigger additional hearings and potential punishments.

According to Connecticut General Statute § 46b-38a, the identity of a supposed victim defines an incident as domestic violence. The court will classify the incident as domestic violence if the alleged victim is the defendant’s child, parent, spouse, romantic partner, or roommate.

This classification can significantly impact a defendant’s rights and freedoms before the case ever goes to trial. Someone alleging spousal abuse may petition the court to create a protective order that requires the defendant to cease all contact. This may require a defendant to move out of their home and cease contact with their children. To prevent these life-changing repercussions, our lawyers in Bridgeport work to contest protective orders in spousal abuse cases.

Speak with a Bridgeport Spousal Abuse Attorney Now to Protect Your Rights

Accusations of domestic violence are serious matters, regardless of what charges are at the core of the case. Even if the allegations are for misdemeanor offenses, the outcome of the case can negatively impact your career, schooling, and family life. A mere accusation can lead to the court creating a restraining order that limits your ability to see your family or live in your home. A conviction for a spousal abuse offense can also bring enhanced penalties.

Contacting a Bridgeport spousal abuse lawyer is the first step toward achieving a positive outcome in your case. From day one, the legal team at Ruane Attorneys is prepared to explain your rights, contest any potential restraining orders, and fight back against the accusations at the center of your case. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you.