5 Reasons You Need an Attorney for a Domestic Violence Charge
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Fighting Domestic Violence Charges throughout New Mexico
While you might be afraid of the costs of hiring an attorney, realize that those costs outweigh the reality of criminal punishment. If you are arrested for domestic violence charges, it is imperative that you hire an attorney. An attorney can help you not only prove your innocence but avoid the long-term consequences of a domestic violence conviction.
5 Compelling Reasons to Hire an Attorney Now
You have the right to an attorney; therefore, it is in your best interest to exercise that right.
From a legal standpoint, domestic violence charges mean that you intimidate someone into assuming you were going to harm them, or you attempted to hit or touch someone in an offensive way or did complete the act.
You could be charged with domestic violence just because your accuser says that you harmed them; therefore, this is no charge to ignore.
- Even controlling actions could be considered domestic violence. You do not have to strike a domestic partner to face domestic violence charges physically. In fact, being controlling, threatening, or mentally abusing your partner could constitute domestic violence.
- It is your word against the victim. Your word does not carry much weight in a domestic violence case, but the victim’s does. While the courts created this rule to ensure that battered spouses would speak up, the reality is that some spouses are not battered and abused the power that their word has over the court.
- You will lose your right to carry a gun. If you are convicted of domestic violence, you are prohibited from owning, carrying, or having a gun in your home. Also, you cannot purchase or possess ammunition. While it is a misdemeanor offense, federal law prohibits you from this right after a conviction.
- You could lose your job. A domestic violence conviction is severe. Some employers will not hire a domestic violence offender, especially if you are in public education, therapy, medical care, and so forth. If your career is in a particular field, you may no longer be able to work and have to seek new job opportunities. Also, a misdemeanor or felony conviction for domestic violence is grounds enough for you to not only lose your current job, but possibly be unable to obtain employment in the future.
- A domestic violence conviction stays on your permanent criminal record. If you are asked if you have been charged or convicted of a crime, you must respond that you have on your application. Also, you cannot expunge or seal domestic violence records; therefore, a conviction remains part of your criminal record for the rest of your life.
Avoid the Harsh Realities of a Domestic Violence Conviction – Contact a Defense Attorney
Avoid the harsh realities that come with a domestic violence conviction. Instead, contact a criminal defense attorney that can help you with your charges and find the best possible solution. New Mexico Criminal Law Offices is here to assist you with your criminal case. Call us now for a free case evaluation at 505-375-4671 or request more information online.