Abuse in the home is considered a serious criminal act, and if convicted, a Virginia defendant could face significant consequences. In addition to the potential criminal penalties one is up against, these allegations will affect one’s life in other areas as well. Allegations of domestic violence could affect child custody cases, divorce proceedings, career opportunities and more.
An understanding of domestic abuse
Domestic abuse cases typically involve allegations of a cycle of violence, or repeated psychological and physical abuse. The specific criminal charges depend on the nature of any injuries, the presence of a minor or supposed violation of a protective order. While physical abuse is the main type of domestic violence, these cases can also involve the following:
- Psychological abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Financial or economic abuse
- Sexual abuse
These are emotionally charged cases, and the allegations may arise during a complicated divorce or contentious custody proceeding. False accusations, even if clearly unfounded, should be taken seriously by the accused. It will be necessary to begin working immediately to defend against potential charges and preserve one’s future interests.
The right defense strategy
The right defense strategy for a Virginia defendant facing domestic violence allegations depends on the details of the individual case. It will be prudent to seek guidance from an experienced family law attorney. With the right help, one can protect personal freedom, firearm rights, career opportunities, custody rights and much more. These allegations can have ripple effects on one’s life, but it is possible to fight back and preserve long-term interests.