Domestic Violence Attorneys

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Domestic violence or domestic assault is a very serious charge that could have long-term consequences on your life. Domestic violence cases can ruin careers, destroy families, and affect your reputation. These types of cases are often very emotionally charged and require an experienced criminal defense attorney’s assistance. The domestic violence lawyers at Hills Law are excellent advocates for those accused of domestic assault, and we work hard to win our cases.

WHAT IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?

Domestic violence occurs when the following circumstances exist:

1. The accused assaults or assaults and batters an individual.
2. That individual must have been one of the following:
• The accused’s spouse
• The accused’s former spouse
• Had a child in common with the accused
• Was a resident or former resident of the same household as the accused
• Was a person who the accused had or previously had a dating relationship

An assault happens when you put another person in fear of harm. A battery, on the other hand, occurs if you follow through with the assault and make physical contact with the other person. A battery does not require that the victim have an injury.

PUNISHMENT FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CRIMES IN MICHIGAN

If found guilty or convicted of domestic violence on a first conviction, a defendant could spend up to 93 days in jail, be placed on probation with conditions (such as anger management / domestic violence counseling), and / or be assessed fines and costs.

If convicted of a second offense of domestic violence, an individual could spend up to one year in jail, be placed on probation, and / or have fines and costs imposed by the court.

Subsequent convictions are felonies punishable by up to two years in prison, fines, or five years’ probation.

COLLATERAL CONSEQUENCES

Individuals charged with and / or convicted of domestic assault face serious consequences directly and indirectly.

A conviction of domestic violence could directly impact one’s ability to use, carry, or possess a firearm. The only way to avoid this consequence is by avoiding a conviction under this statute.
Frequently, domestic violence offenses also involve no-contact orders. These can come in the form of bond conditions or personal protection orders. Violations of those no-contact orders can lead to more serious charges.

If you’re facing domestic violence charges in southwest Michigan, Hills at Law, P.C.’s experienced criminal defense attorneys are available to help you navigate the criminal justice system. We are ready to help you present your strongest defense.