A domestic assault conviction can have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the immediate legal penalties. Even a misdemeanor charge can significantly impact your life, affecting your employment, housing, relationships, and personal well-being.
Charges of domestic assault or domestic violence, require a skilled criminal defense lawyer to provide legal advice, to help you avoid or reduce jail time, fines, probation, restraining orders, and to limit the effect on employment, housing, child custody, and immigration.
Legal Consequences of a Domestic Assault & Battery Conviction
- Jail Time: Depending on the severity of the offense and your criminal history, you could face jail time. Even a first offense can result in substantial incarceration.
- Fines: Significant fines can be imposed, adding to the financial burden of a conviction.
- Probation: Probation terms may include mandatory counseling, community service, and other restrictions.
- Loss of Firearms: A domestic assault conviction typically results in the permanent loss of your right to own or possess firearms.
- Restraining Orders: A restraining order may be issued, limiting your contact with the victim and potentially restricting your ability to live in your home or see your children.
Collateral Consequences of Domestic Assault
- Employment: Many employers conduct background checks, and a domestic assault conviction can make it difficult to find or keep a job, especially in fields that require security clearances or licenses.
- Housing: Landlords may be hesitant to rent to individuals with a criminal record, especially one involving domestic violence.
- Child Custody and Visitation: A conviction can impact child custody and visitation rights, making it harder to maintain relationships with your children.
- Immigration: For non-citizens, a domestic violence conviction can have serious immigration consequences, including deportation.
- Personal Relationships: A conviction can damage relationships with family and friends, leading to social isolation and emotional distress.
Seeking Legal Help for Domestic Assault and Battery
If you have been charged with domestic assault, it is crucial to seek legal advice immediately. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand your rights, build a strong defense, and navigate the legal process.
Remember: A domestic assault conviction can have long-lasting consequences. Don’t face these challenges alone. Contact a qualified attorney today to protect your future.
I have been defending those accused of Assault and Battery in Massachusetts for over Thirty (30) years. I have been named a “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” by The National Trial Lawyers, I have earned the “Clients’ Choice Award” by AVVO, the Client Champion Platinum Award by Martindale-Hubbell, I have been named a “Top Tier Lawyer” by the American Trial Academy and I have won over Ninety Percent (90%) of my trials.*
Top Domestic Violence Attorney
Call Mike Now at: (508) 393-4162.
This blog is not intended to be legal advice, if you have been charged with Assault and Battery or Domestic Assault and Battery (A&B, Domestic A&B, Domestic Violence) or any other crime in Massachusetts you should call an experienced and successful Defense lawyer immediately.