Sometimes, arguments escalate between couples, and it can lead to domestic violence and criminal charges. The consequences of these kinds of charges can touch all aspects of your life. If you need help defending domestic violence charges in North Carolina, The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., is ready to protect your rights and freedom.

Domestic Violence in North Carolina

Domestic violence is a very personal matter, and our firm understands that your privacy is important. Often, these situations involve high emotions and uncertainty. As a result, the trial process can be complicated. The good news is that you do not have to handle everything on your own. A domestic violence defense attorney can provide guidance.

In the United States, intimate partner violence affects more than 12 million people every year. Domestic violence represents a serious charge, but a knowledgeable attorney can minimize penalties as much as possible.

How The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., Can Help

When you work with a North Carolina domestic violence defense attorney at The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., we can thoroughly investigate your case and apply more than 20 years of experience to your defense. As a family practice, we are deeply connected to the local community, and we care about the legal difficulties you are going through.

With an office in Shelby, our firm serves clients throughout the western part of the state. When we work on your case, we can build a strong legal strategy by investigating the facts and carefully evaluating the other side’s evidence. At The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., we aim to reach the most favorable results possible for all of our clients.

What Are Domestic Violence Charges?

In North Carolina, domestic violence occurs when someone commits one of the following acts upon a minor child or someone with whom they have had an intimate relationship:

• Attempting or intending to cause bodily harm
• Causing fear of imminent bodily harm
• Harassment to a level that inflicts substantial emotional distress

Domestic violence defense cases start in either civil or criminal court, depending on the specifics of the case.

In civil domestic violence cases, the primary aim is to provide protection and relief for the victim rather than punishing the defendant. In criminal domestic violence, the defendant can face significant penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and a permanent criminal record. In Shelby, both types of cases go through the Cleveland County Courthouse.

Domestic Violence Penalties

In North Carolina, domestic violence charges can lead to a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances. According to the state’s domestic violence defense laws, the misdemeanor crime of domestic violence is any act of domestic violence that an individual commits against a family member or intimate partner. When domestic violence causes a life-threatening injury or there is an intent to kill, it can lead to felony charges.

Common Domestic Violence Defenses

Domestic violence cases can be complicated, and a skilled attorney can create a legal strategy to defend your freedom. When defending domestic violence charges in North Carolina, common defenses include:

• Lack of proof. Sometimes, there is not enough proof to hold against someone facing domestic violence charges. If there is no evidence, there is no case against you.
• False accusations. We have also seen false accusations. If someone has lied about you committing domestic violence, it can be grounds for dismissal.
• Law enforcement charged the wrong suspect. When someone reports domestic violence, it is not uncommon for the police to arrest the wrong suspect.
• Self-defense. If you can prove you were in danger and you committed domestic violence to protect yourself, you may also have a solid defense.

Our domestic violence attorney can look at the details of your case to carefully review the evidence. Just because someone has accused you of domestic violence does not mean you are guilty.

Why Should I Hire a Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer?

Trying to navigate the state’s civil and criminal justice systems on your own can be challenging. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side can help you understand every step of the process. In addition to evaluating evidence and defending your rights, a domestic violence attorney can help protect your reputation.

Domestic violence convictions can have long-term repercussions for a person’s professional and personal life. At The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., we can also handle child custody issues that may arise as a result of domestic violence charges. We know how important your family and freedom are to you, and we can aggressively fight for you.

FAQs About Defending Domestic Violence Charges in North Carolina

Can the Court Drop Domestic Violence Charges in North Carolina?

Depending on the circumstances, the court may drop charges in domestic violence defense cases if there is a lack of evidence or if there is cooperation from the victim. If you can prove the accusations against you are false, you may also be able to dismiss the charges. If fault is evident, it can be difficult to drop charges.

What Is the Optimal Defense for Domestic Violence Charges?

The optimal defense for domestic violence charges varies. It may include self-defense, lack of intent, false allegations, defense of property, or establishing an alibi. A domestic violence defense attorney can use all available evidence to figure out what kind of defense will result in the most favorable outcome for your unique situation.

How Do You Defend a Domestic Violence Case?

To defend a domestic violence case, you should hire a domestic violence defense lawyer who can offer guidance throughout the legal process. Together, you and an attorney can gather evidence and review police reports for inconsistencies. An attorney can also help you negotiate with the prosecutor. All of these steps can help you build a solid defense.

How Much Does It Cost to Defend a Domestic Violence Case?

The cost of defending clients facing domestic violence charges can vary depending on the details of the situation. In more complicated cases involving child custody, for example, the legal process can be more complex. Generally, the more complicated a case is, the more expensive the legal fees will be. At The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., we offer zero-interest payment plans and free consultations.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

Domestic violence charges can be stressful to deal with, but they do not have to be the end of your life. With years of experience defending domestic violence charges in North Carolina, The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., is ready to take your case. Call us today to schedule your free consultation and get the legal representation you deserve.