Shelton Domestic Violence Lawyer

Allegations of physical or emotionally harming another person can lead to serious legal consequences. If you are accused of violence against a family member, partner, or member of your household, the penalties may be even greater. The term “domestic violence” describes situations where the alleged victim of an incident has a relationship with the supposed perpetrator.

Without representation from a dedicated defense attorney, you may be facing criminal penalties as well as restrictive restraining orders. It is crucial that you contact a Shelton domestic violence lawyer at Ruane Attorneys as soon as possible to protect your rights and argue your case.

Legal Definition of Domestic Violence

The term domestic violence does not appear anywhere in state law. Instead, Connecticut General Statute § 46b-38a defines the concept of family violence as any act of bodily harm, threatened violence, or fear of harm that impacts family or household members. This same statute describes a household member as:

• Spouses or former spouses
• Parents or their children
• Married people
• People living together or who have ever lived together
• People with a child in common
• People dating or who have recently dated

A wide variety of alleged offenses may bring accusations of domestic violence. Typical examples include assaults, harassment, stalking, sexual abuse, and improper imprisonment. A Shelton domestic assault attorney could provide more information about the concept of family violence under state law.

DV Penalties in Shelton

A criminal charge for family violence can bring harsh penalties. Even a conviction on misdemeanor charges can result in a jail sentence of one year, while a felony conviction can lead to mandatory minimum prison terms. As such, it is essential to approach these cases from a position of strength. A local domestic violence lawyer could take the lead in gathering evidence and building an effective defense against these charges.

Restraining Orders for Family Violence

A person accused of domestic violence may face restrictions on their freedom even before their case goes to trial. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 46b-38c authorizes restraining orders if the court believes that a defendant poses a risk to the well-being of an alleged victim.

The alleged victim may ask the court to create this order, but the prosecutor or even the state’s Family Relations department may also take the lead in this matter. These orders could force a person to quit a job, stop seeing their children, or even move out of a home. A hardworking domestic violence attorney could help to argue against the necessity of these orders while a case moves through the criminal justice system in Shelton.

Reach Out to a Shelton Domestic Violence Attorney Today

Every allegation involving a supposed incident of domestic violence is a serious matter. Not only can the criminal charges come with harsh penalties upon conviction, but a mere arrest upon suspicion of violence or threats can lead to a restraining order that disrupts every part of your life.

At Ruane Attorneys, our Shelton domestic violence lawyers are dedicated to helping you fight back against these allegations. Our legal team works to defeat the criminal charges against you and protect your freedoms throughout your case. Contact our firm today to learn more about how we could help you.