Experienced Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence charges cover a wide range of criminal charges, including:

The severity of the act of which you are accused will determine if you face misdemeanor or felony charges. A conviction on either can cause lifelong economic and social consequences. Unfortunately, some people fabricate allegations of domestic violence to gain the upper hand in divorce proceedings and child custody cases.

Working with a skilled lawyer is your best option for navigating the court system during this difficult time. They will build a defense based on your specific situation. They may be able to get the charges dropped, dismissed, or get you a plea agreement for a lesser charge. And, because Maryland judges have some latitude in sentencing in some cases, a defense attorney skilled in domestic violence cases may be able to help you get reduced penalties if you are convicted.

A good lawyer will not make any promises but will explain all of the possibilities to you, and work diligently on your behalf.

Protection Orders

If someone makes an allegation of domestic abuse against you, they may also seek a protective order. If a protective order is filed and granted, it prohibits you from entering your home, and contacting the victim, and it could mean losing custody of your children. You may also be prohibited from keeping a weapon if you are subject to a protective order.

If law enforcement authorities serve you with a protection order, a lawyer for domestic violence can help guide you through the legal process. Violating the protective order can result in 90 days in jail or a $1,000 fine, or both. A second violation carries a $2,500 fine or a year in prison, or both.

Working with an attorney skilled in domestic violence cases can help you avoid making a bad situation worse.

Domestic Violence Laws in Maryland

There aren’t any laws making domestic violence a crime in Maryland. Rather, the specific crimes listed above are grouped under the domestic violence umbrella when the alleged victim is a spouse, romantic partner, or family member. If convicted, you may face harsher penalties if a child was present when the abuse occurred.

To protect yourself and your future, obtain legal representation as soon as a domestic abuse allegation or arrest is made. A skilled domestic violence lawyer will help ensure that all legal requirements are met to protect your interests every step of the way. A lawyer can also help you make important decisions about your future, no matter the legal outcome of your case.