Any allegation of violence or threats against another person can lead to harsh consequences upon conviction. However, these types of accusations can negatively impact your life even before your day in court if the alleged offense is domestic violence. An arrest for abuse against a family or household member can result in the court imposing a restraining order that forces you to make major changes in your life.

Accordingly, it is important to reach out to an East Windsor domestic violence lawyer as early as possible in your case. The dedicated legal advisors at Ruane Attorneys could argue for fair bail terms, dispute the need for a restraining order, and fight the core criminal charges at trial. We are here to protect your rights and help you through the legal process.

Legal Definition of Domestic Abuse

An alleged incident of domestic violence involves threats or violence against another person who is a member of the defendant’s household. It is the identity of the alleged victim that classifies a charge as domestic violence.

State law provides a strict definition of who counts as a member of a defendant’s household. Under Connecticut General Statute § 46b-38a, household members can include:

• Spouses
• Children
• Parents
• People who share a child in common
• People who have ever lived together

An East Windsor domestic violence attorney could provide more information about the concept of a household member and dispute a prosecutor’s accusation that an incident involved these people.

Penalties for DV Charges in East Windsor

Criminal charges for domestic violence can lead to enhanced penalties upon conviction. For example, an assault against a household member brings harsher punishments than an assault against a stranger.

These cases can also bring immediate penalties for those facing accusations of a crime. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 46b-38cauthorizes a court to institute a protective order if that court believes that contact between the alleged victim and defendant is likely to result in further conflict. This could force a defendant to move out of their home or even lose contact with children. A local domestic violence lawyer could fight to prevent the creation of these orders and protect a person’s rights during their case.

Accusations that Could Lead to Domestic Abuse Charges

As previously mentioned, it is the identity of an alleged victim—not the alleged offense itself—that makes a charge one of domestic violence. This label may attach to almost any example of criminal accusation that involves threats of violence or actual harm to another. Common examples include:

• Assaults
• Sex abuse
• Stalking or harassment
• Kidnapping
• Child endangerment

Regardless of the circumstances leading to a domestic violence charge, an accused person should talk with an East Windsor attorney to prepare a rigorous defense.

Contact an East Windsor Domestic Violence Attorney Now

Accusations of domestic violence can have an immediate impact on your life. Even before the case gets to trial, the court may impose harsh restraining orders that require you to make major changes in your daily activities. A conviction in criminal court can lead to more serious restrictions on your rights and freedoms.

At Ruane Attorneys, an East Windsor domestic violence lawyer is prepared to present a defense on your behalf and advise you throughout the legal proceedings. Call our law firm today to schedule a consultation and get the representation you need.