Consequences of a Domestic Violence

Kent, Washington Domestic Violence Attorneys

Domestic violence charges are serious. Not only can they result in a permanent criminal record, they often lead to a restraining order. If after 10 days a judge believes a restraining order should remain in effect, you will be required to vacate the home or apartment you share with the person threatened, avoid contact with them, and relinquish any firearms you own.

If convicted of domestic violence, you could be sent to jail, charged with a fine, and be required to seek counseling. Additionally, if you and a girlfriend or ex-spouse have children together, the court may temporarily suspend visitation or deny your visitation rights. If you have been arrested for domestic violence, the Law Offices of James Newton, PLLC can help you avoid additional legal problems and complications.

Charges of domestic violence should be taken seriously, even if there is no physical evidence of violence or an assault. To learn more about the consequences of domestic violence charges and how we can help you, contact criminal defense lawyers at the Law Offices of James Newton, PLLC today.

What Happens if a Restraining Order is Issued Against Me?

In most domestic violence cases, a restraining order is issued. If a restraining order is issued, you will be required to comply with the following:

• Relinquish ownership of any firearms you own
• Leave an apartment or house shared with the person the restraining order is intended to protect
• Must avoid contact with the person named in the restraining order, as well as their family members and children

Additionally, once a restraining order is issued, authorities can arrest or detain you if its terms are violated - this includes cases where there is only a suspicion of having violated it. In the end, once a restraining order is put in place, you have much less control over portions of your life while being susceptible to detainment on the mere suspicion of having violated the order.

The Long-Term Consequences of a Domestic Violence Charge

If you are convicted of domestic violence or of violating a restraining order, you could face time in jail, expensive fines, and a permanent criminal record. Not only could this impact your current job, it could also affect your ability to find future employment. If you are sentenced to a short time in jail, you could lose your job if your employer isn't willing to allow you time off or has a zero-tolerance policy towards criminal convictions.

Understand the Consequences of a Domestic Violence Charge

If you have questions regarding domestic violence charges and the legal options available to you, contact criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of James Newton, PLLC today. Our consultations are completely confidential and protected by the attorney-client privilege.