Responsive, Supportive Defense For Your Domestic Assault Charges
Family dynamics are often complex, and all families have interpersonal struggles at some point. While most disputes are resolved quietly and peacefully, others catch the attention of law enforcement. Even if the original allegations were exaggerated or false, they are still likely to result in arrest and charges for domestic assault once police are called. The person arrested may feel like everyone assumes the worst and no one is interested in their side of the story.
If you were charged with domestic assault in Greensboro or throughout Guilford County, you do have advocates on your side. Our domestic assault defense lawyers at Aberle & Connolly, PLLC, bring more than 30 years of combined criminal defense experience to your case. They understand how scary it can be to face criminal charges, and they are here to support you and protect your rights at every step of the criminal justice process.
Relationships Differentiate Domestic Assault From Other Types Of Assault Offenses
For a crime to be categorized as domestic assault, there must exist a specific type of close relationship between the alleged abuser and the alleged victim. Possibilities include:
- Current or former spouses
- Current or former romantic partners
- Two individuals with one or more mutual children
- Individuals who are biologically or legally related to one another
- Current or former members of the same household
The close relationship between the parties also means that judges are likely to impose different penalties for domestic assault than for similar types of violent crime.
How Domestic Assault Is Charged And Punished In North Carolina
While some states have specific criminal laws that classify domestic violence as a distinct crime, prosecutors in North Carolina charge these offenses under existing assault statutes. Someone accused of domestic assault may face charges related to:
- Attempting to cause or causing serious bodily injury
- Making threats that cause fear and significant emotional distress
- Stalking and harassment
- Violation of a protection order or restraining order
- Sexual violence
Although domestic abuse cases are charged under other assault statutes, the sentences imposed are often different for domestic assault. Judges may be more likely to sentence an offender to jail time or to deny a pretrial bond.
They may also issue a protection/restraining order that keeps the offender out of their own home and away from their own children. Someone convicted of a domestic violence offense could be required to attend an “abuser treatment program” or meet similar court-ordered requirements.
Our Domestic Assault Defense Lawyers Will Work To Address Every Aspect Of Your Case
Facing a domestic assault charge can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our experienced and caring attorneys are here to support you through every step of your case. From the moment you contact us, they will listen to your side of the story and work diligently to protect your rights.
We understand that a domestic assault charge can affect many areas of your life, resulting in both criminal and noncriminal consequences. Our attorneys will help you understand the legal process and what to expect in court. They will gather evidence, interview witnesses and build a strong defense to challenge the charges against you. One of our attorneys, Brennan Aberle, is board-certified by the North Carolina State Bar as a Specialist in State Criminal Law.
Beyond the courtroom, however, they will also help you address the broader impact of these charges. This includes advising you on how to handle any protective orders, child custody issues or employment concerns that may arise. If you are an immigrant to the United States, any criminal charge could threaten your immigration status. This is a concern that our lawyers understand well. Attorney Julie Connolly is fluent in Spanish and regularly represents clients in the Greenville area who have immigrated from Latin American counties.
No matter what your circumstances, the goal of our caring attorneys is to help you achieve the most favorable outcome available in your case so that you can move forward with your life.
Discuss Your Domestic Abuse Charges With Our Criminal Defense Attorney For Free
Aberle & Connolly, PLLC, is located in Greensboro, North Carolina, and we serve clients throughout Guilford County. If you’ve been arrested, don’t wait to take legal action. Contact our domestic assault defense lawyers today to request a free initial consultation. You can reach out online or call 336-900-5452.