Domestic Violence Attorney in Washington, D.C.

Challenge Your Charges with Our Criminal Defense Team

If you have been accused of domestic violence, make sure that you consult with a criminal defense attorney immediately to assess your options and what you should do moving forward. Our Washington, D.C. domestic violence lawyers at Hunter & Johnson, PLLC understand that there is often more to the story than what the police see. The complainant usually tells their side of the story, and then you end up getting arrested without telling yours. We've seen it time and again before, and we're ready to help make sure that your voice is heard. Tell us the details of your case and we will work hard to defend your charges.

Acts that can be charged under domestic violence include:

• Assault
• Simple assault
• Destruction of property
• Possession of a prohibited weapon
• Threats to do bodily harm
• Stalking
• Sexual assault
• Cruelty to children
• Contempt

To better understand domestic violence charges, it is necessary to take a closer look at the forms of abuse the DOJ considers capable of causing domestic violence.

1. Physical: Using physical force to cause physical harm, but also forcing a partner to consume alcohol or use drugs. Denying them medical coverage can also be considered physical abuse.
2. Sexual: Contact or behavior that is sexual in nature and uninvited by the alleged victim. Treating someone in a demeaning manner may constitute sexual domestic violence.
3. Emotional: Intentionally lowering someone’s self-esteem or perceived self-worth through harsh criticism and insults, as well as detracting from their relationship with their own children.
4. Economic: Preventing someone from accessing their own finances, effectively taking control of their money and resources. May be done by stopping them from going to work.
5. Psychological: Using threats and intimidation to cause someone to feel mental harm. This area is somewhat vague and may be applied to most domestic violence cases.

Have you been charged? Don't wait to call us for a phone evaluation.

Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction in Washington, D.C.

There is a lot at stake in domestic violence cases. You could be facing criminal penalties, a tarnished reputation, and may have to live life with a criminal record.

The possible penalties of a domestic violence conviction include:

• Imprisonment
• Fines
• Loss of parental rights
• Loss of right to own firearm
• Protective orders preventing you from contacting the complainant
• Anger management programs
• Criminal record

Whether your family violence case was a result of a misunderstanding or ulterior motives stemming from a divorce or custody dispute, don't face your charges without an experienced lawyer there to help you navigate the criminal justice system.

What If the Complainant Wants to Drop Domestic Violence Charges?

It is up to the prosecutor whether or not he or she wants to drop the charges, not the complainant. In Washington, D.C., prosecutors are very strict about their no-drop policy when it comes to domestic violence. This is because law enforcement officials are trying to deter domestic violence by aggressively prosecuting the offenders. Talk to an experienced Washington, D.C. domestic violence lawyer at our firm to learn more about how you should approach your case.

Is Domestic Violence a Felony in Washington, D.C.?

Whether or not your domestic violence case is charged as a felony depends on the circumstances. Most domestic violence cases are usually considered misdemeanors, which means the most a defendant can face is up to a year in jail and a fine.

You could be facing a felony charge if your domestic violence case involves more serious situations such as:

• Assault
• Protection order violation
• Harassment
• Excessive property damage
• Or if you have a prior history of domestic violence

It is important that you seek help from an aggressive domestic violence attorney in Washington, D.C. who can help you mitigate your accusations and push for a favorable outcome.

Violated a Protection Order?

Even though you may feel the protective order was unfair or based on false accusations, it is critical that you continue to abide by the terms, otherwise you may face criminal penalties. Offenders found to be in violation of a current protection order can be held in contempt of the court and subject to fines and serve time in jail. If you have been accused of violating a protective order that has been issued against you, we can help. Talk to ourWashington, D.C. domestic violence attorneys about how you can mitigate the situation and defend your rights.

Call (202) 759-7929 to Reach a Washington, D.C. Domestic Violence Attorney

Domestic violence cases can be complex because you are not only dealing with the criminal charges, but you may face additional stresses if you are struggling to maintain custody and visitation of your children. We know how stressful the situation is for you, and we want to put our experience and skills to work for you. From interviewing witnesses to undermining the credibility of the complainant, our team can diligently investigate and prepare a strong case on your behalf.

See what we can do to help. Call our office at (202) 759-7929 to begin.