Bridgeport Domestic Violence Pretrial Release

When law enforcement authorities in Connecticut arrest or cite someone for suspected domestic violence against a household or family member, they rarely keep the defendant in custody until the conclusion of their trial. This typically only occurs if they have been accused of a severe offense or the court believes they may re-offend. Instead, most people accused of domestic violence can stay out of jail while their trial is ongoing, provided they adhere to strict conditions of release set by the court or arresting officer.

After an arrest, discuss Bridgeport domestic violence pretrial release with legal counsel. Pretrial release can be revoked on short notice if there is any suspicion that you breached your terms of release. The lawyers at Ruane Attorneys can help defend your rights and protect your freedom while your case is pending.

Conditions of Release in Domestic Violence Cases

Typically, pretrial release for domestic violence defendants in Bridgeport happens after the defendant has appeared before the Superior Court for their arraignment, which usually occurs on the first business day following their arrest. However, suppose someone is cited or arrested for domestic violence while the courts are closed. In that case, the arresting officer may provide the defendant with a Conditions of Release form detailing conditions they must obey until their first court appearance.

Notably, any conditions imposed upon someone arrested for domestic violence through this Conditions of Release form cannot be challenged. The arresting police officer has full discretion over the scope and severity of the terms since they are only meant to last a few days. Still, violating these conditions of release can be prosecuted as a Class A misdemeanor up to a Class C felony under Connecticut General Statute §53a-222 or 53a-222a, depending on the domestic violence charge and the alleged conditions of release violation. Our local attorneys can work to defend those accused of violations and protect their rights to pretrial release during domestic violence cases.

Negotiating for Pretrial Release During Arraignment

If the judge overseeing a domestic violence arraignment hearing grants the defendant pretrial release, they will typically impose a temporary protective order against the defendant. This is meant to last until the criminal case concludes and may impose significant restrictions on the defendant’s movements and interactions. Just like violating conditions of release, violating the terms of a protective order is a distinct criminal offense that can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or felony.

Sometimes, the judge may decide that the defendant could be dangerous to others, the community, or themselves. If so, or if the defendant has violated previous Conditions of Release, the judge may refuse to grant a pretrial release. Instead, they may order the defendant to remain in custody for the duration of the criminal proceedings. Support from a Bridgeport lawyer can be vital to securing a pretrial release in a domestic violence case, as well as favorable conditions and bond values.

Learn More About Domestic Violence Pretrial Release from a Bridgeport Attorney

In theory, pretrial release for domestic violence cases follows most of the same rules and court practices as for any other criminal case. In reality, getting fair terms and conditions for Bridgeport domestic violence pretrial release can be difficult. This is particularly true if you do not have legal representation to argue for your rights.

Retaining a lawyer at Ruane Attorneys is the first step toward getting the best possible results in your domestic violence case. Learn more by calling our office today.