Domestic violence is normally defined as battery of a family member. Because
family is constantly in each other’s presence, there are times that
spouses or parents and children can get irritated with one another. Those
that can’t control their tempers may spout off and eventually result
to hitting, punching, or inflicting other bodily injuries.
Domestic violence is a serious crime that can come with jail or prison time, fines, and
marks on your criminal record.
In Ohio, a first conviction for an act of physical violence or attempted
physical violence against a family member is considered a misdemeanor.
It is punishable by six months in prison and a $1,000 fine. Sometimes,
Child Protective Services will also get involved in a domestic violence
case and remove the children in your family from under your roof. These
children will be placed with other willing family members or sent into
the foster care system.
This can be the most devastating of all punishments for parents who love
their kids and don’t want to split their family apart because of
a foolish decision. Those who commit domestic violence a second time can
merit a $2,500 fine and be incarcerated for up to one year. According
to the state Senate Bill 50, a third domestic violence conviction is punishable
by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of $10,000.
There are serious consequences associated with domestic violence charges,
but there are times that it is hard to determine what actually happened.
Most domestic violence crimes take place in a home without witnesses,
and the alleged victim will call to report the crime. A client came to
us after having been convicted of domestic violence, but we were able
to get his case thrown out. We argued that the plaintiff did not have
enough evidence in the case. If you have been charged with domestic violence
in Columbus or Newark, then talk to us today. We will work hard to merit
similar results in your case!