You could be facing domestic violence charges and not know it
What is Domestic Violence?
The term “domestic violence” includes, but is not limited to, physical violence. Domestic violence can also be directed at any cohabitant, and not only a spouse or partner. In Utah, any crime that involves a cohabitant can fall under domestic violence, including assault, destruction of property, and emotional threats.
You May Be in Trouble
Many people who are charged with domestic violence think that the situation will resolve itself, especially if they subjectively believe that they are innocent. Several circumstances may have you believe that everything is under control and that you don’t need legal advice and representation.
For example, you may have only threatened a cohabitant or made an unsuccessful attempt to assault someone in your home, say, by throwing an object at them, and you may have even missed. Another common occurrence is if the person that called the police, for example, a spouse, sibling, partner, roommate, or child promises to ask the prosecution to drop the charge of domestic violence.
Another reason an accused may be relaxed about their situation is if they know they did nothing wrong. You may have had a non-aggressive verbal altercation, or the person that reported you to the police may want to make your life difficult. Your spouse or partner may also mistakenly believe that you will do them bodily harm and call the police out of fear.
If you are being investigated for domestic violence, you are in trouble, and you should contact a reputable and experienced lawyer immediately.
Why You Need Legal Representation in Domestic Violence Cases
When you are notified that you are being investigated for domestic violence, the first thing you should do is to prioritize the investigation and seek immediate and expert legal advice and representation.
Firstly, the prosecution will actively pursue charges against you in an attempt to secure a criminal conviction and penalties. It’s not the prosecution’s job to make sure that your interests and rights as an accused are respected.
Also, your actions may constitute a form of domestic violence, even if your intention was not to cause harm to a cohabitant or if you didn’t resort to physical violence. A threat or unsuccessful attempt to cause harm to someone is often enough for a court to convict you of domestic violence.
Another reason you should seek immediate legal help is that a victim does not have the power to stop an investigation. If the prosecution believes that there may be a case against you, they will proceed with charges and compel your partner, spouse or cohabitant to testify against you, even if they intended to have the investigation dropped.
Criminal and Civil Charges
When you are charged with domestic abuse, your accuser may file a civil suit against you as well. They may want to obtain a protective order against you or submit a claim for hospital fees, emotional trauma, or any other costs that they incurred as a result of your alleged conduct.
As a result, you may have to defend yourself against a criminal charge as well as a civil claim or court application.
If a criminal or civil case against you is successful, it can have a far-reaching impact on your life. You may have problems with your career, social status, and child custody disputes in the case of a divorce.
Your rights and interests may also be limited as the result of a domestic violence conviction. For example, you may lose the right to carry a gun, you may have difficulty applying for a professional license, or you may have trouble filing specific legal applications.
Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Utah
Hoyer Law’s reputable domestic violence attorney has an excellent track record as well as extensive experience in defending clients who are charged with domestic violence.
When you contact Hoyer Law, we will provide you with extensive legal advice and represent you throughout the investigation and legal proceedings to ensure that you don’t do or say anything that can be detrimental to your case.
As part of our legal defense service, we will also consult extensively with you to ensure that you know exactly what is going on with the investigation against you and to explain the different options that are available to you. We will also recommend the most suitable course of action for you to strengthen your case and to increase your chances of a successful outcome.
If you are being investigated or charged with domestic violence in the state of Utah, contact Hoyer Law today to schedule an initial consultation.
