Have you been convicted of a crime? If so, your domestic violence charges could lead to harsh penalties if convicted. When you have a prior record, you need to be sure you get a fair trial. A respected Cincinnati domestic violence lawyer could make a difference in your case.
The Impact of a Criminal Record
You have already been convicted of a crime. So, you know the criminal penalties you can face if you are found guilty of this current domestic violence charge. Some of these penalties often include:
- Prison time
- Fines
- Probation
- House arrest
- Completion of a drug or alcohol treatment program
- Community service
- Suspension of gun rights
- License restrictions, where applicable
Additional Consequences
In addition to these criminal penalties, your entire life could be turned up-side-down. Some of the different ways your life could be affected by your conviction include:
- Damage to your reputation
- Damage to your family and friend ties
- Trouble finding or keeping a job
- Trouble finding a place to live
- Child custody and visitation issues
Difficulty Negotiating with The Prosecutor
Since you have a prior record, you’re already fighting an uphill battle. The prosecutor may be less likely to negotiate a plea agreement if you have a criminal record. If you were on probation or parole, then you will have violated those terms with your arrest for domestic violence.
This means you could be arrested again. You could be made to serve out the remaining term of your sentence. And that’s before you have been convicted of the current domestic violence charges against you.
Furthermore, the state is more likely to seek harsher penalties. This is especially true if your former conviction was domestic violence-related
Domestic Violence Charges in Ohio
Have you been charged with a domestic violence crime? If so, you could be facing several different types of charges. Some of the more common types of domestic violence charges we see in court include:
- Violating a protective order
- Telephone harassment
- Assault and battery
- Child abuse or neglect
- Menacing and stalking
- Child endangerment
- Other crimes against children
Your Domestic Violence Defense Strategy
Your lawyer will need to figure out which defense is most likely to get you acquitted. It is our goal to shield your prior record. The details of your conviction should not be used against you today.
Depending on the details of your case, one of the following defense arguments may be appropriate:
- The accuser lied about the incident
- The incident was accidental
- You are innocent
- The affirmative defense
- Self-defense
- Mistake of fact
- Lack of probable cause
- Procedural errors
- Police misconduct
Contact a Domestic Violence Lawyer in Cincinnati
Your prior record shouldn’t define you. Nor the outcome of your current domestic violence charges. An experienced Cincinnati domestic violence lawyer could help you get a fair trial. Choose Luftman, Heck & Associates.
If you have a prior record for domestic violence or other serious charges, contact us today at (513) 338-1890. Or fill out our online contact form so we can get started on your case.
