Domestic Violence Lawyer in Columbus

Defending Your Reputation and Future

Domestic violence is considered any act of violence that occurs between a household or family members. This could include verbal or physical abuse and can quickly lead to severe consequences for a defendant. In addition to prison time and other repercussions, a conviction also carries a serious social stigma. The stakes are high, so do not wait a moment longer to call the Columbus domestic violence lawyers at The Meranda Law Firm LTD.

The penalties for domestic violence can vary substantially, especially due to how varied the crimes are within this category. You may be facing thousands of dollars in fines, mandatory jail time, anger management or counseling classes, and even time behind bars. You cannot afford to take on these charges alone!

The bottom line is that our firm can provide the solid representation that you need during this challenging time. We have all the legal resources and tools needed to fight your domestic violence charges and win!

If you are facing charges of domestic violence, speak with our attorney today by calling (614) 707-4239 about protecting your future!

What Constitutes Domestic Violence in Ohio?

Domestic violence is defined as the intentional use of violence or the threat of violence against a family member or a close associate, such as a boyfriend/girlfriend or roommate. This means you could be charged for simply threatening another, even if no action was taken against them.

Types of Domestic Violence

5 Things a Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Do for Your Charges

A domestic violence charge can throw your life upside down. You're facing jail time, fines, and social stigma that can last a lifetime. However, you can fight back. There are important things that a Columbus domestic violence attorney can do to help you with your domestic violence charges.

Here are five things a domestic violence lawyer can do if you’re facing a domestic violence charge:

• Help You Understand the Charges: Domestic violence charges are complex. A domestic violence charge may be a misdemeanor or a felony depending on a number of various factors. Your Columbus domestic violence lawyer makes sure that you understand the charges you're up against and what the state needs to prove against you to win their case.
• Build a Strong Defense: Even though domestic violence is a serious charge, there are a number of defenses available to any domestic violence charge. The preparation for a domestic violence case begins long before the trial date. An experienced attorney will help you prepare a case strategy and methodically build the evidence. They know what evidence is admissible in court and how to gather evidence in order to have a strong defense.
• Subpoena Witnesses: A domestic violence charge often comes down to the credibility of witnesses. You need to have all of the witnesses present at your trial. Your domestic violence attorney can prepare subpoenas to make sure that witnesses are court-ordered to appear at your trial.
• Object to the Evidence: When domestic violence charges hinge on the evidence and witness credibility, the state may try to rely on inadmissible evidence like hearsay. They might try to use unrelated incidents or prior convictions against you.
  One thing that your attorney can do is bring preliminary motions regarding the evidence that the state wants to present at trial. They can ask the court to keep out evidence that is unfair or prejudicial which might keep you from having a fair trial.
• Understand All the Options: A domestic violence defense is inherently complex. By building a strong defense, you may convince the state attorney to offer a plea deal. If you get a plea offer, you need to know if you should accept it. In addition, in Ohio, there are multiple types of case resolutions for domestic violence including deferred prosecution or diversion. Your attorney can help you understand all the options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Charged with Domestic Violence

Facing charges of domestic violence can be a highly stressful and confusing time, leading many individuals to make critical mistakes that could harm their case. Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Attempting to Contact the Victim: Many individuals try to contact the victim to explain their side of the story or apologize, which can be viewed as intimidation or tampering with a witness.
• Speaking to the Police Without an Attorney: Anything you say to law enforcement can be used against you in court. Speaking without legal representation increases the risk of inadvertently incriminating yourself.
• Posting About the Case on Social Media: Comments, pictures, or videos related to the case posted on social media platforms can be used as evidence against you.
• Ignoring Court Orders: Failing to comply with a restraining order or any other court-imposed conditions can lead to additional charges and penalties.
• Underestimating the Seriousness of the Charges: Some individuals might not fully grasp how a domestic violence charge can impact their lives, leading to a lack of preparation for their defense.