DeKalb County Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

DeKalb County Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

A domestic violence accusation may carry a stigma and can lead to severe consequences that impact your relationships and your future. If you or someone you love is facing a domestic violence charge, it is highly recommended that you contact a knowledgeable DeKalb County domestic violence defense lawyer as soon as possible.

The legal team at Miller North & Brill has worked tirelessly to defend clients in Georgia over the past three decades. Our skilled criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to defending you whether you have made a mistake or are being falsely accused of domestic violence.

Domestic Violence Laws in DeKalb County, GA

Each county is tasked with enforcing Georgia’s Family Violence Law (OCGA 19-13). DeKalb’s Domestic Violence Unit carries out arrests and investigations whenever a domestic violence crime is reported.

For an incident to be considered a case of domestic violence, it should have been committed within the bounds of the following relationships:

• former or current partners or spouses
• two individuals who have a child
• parents, stepparents, foster parents, and children
• individuals who live or used to live in the same household

Domestic violence charges may fall under the umbrella of assault, battery, stalking, restraint, trespassing, or property damage.

It is important to understand what constitutes a domestic violence crime in light of evolving state and federal laws.

Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction in Georgia

The state of Georgia takes domestic violence seriously, with strict legal punishment in cases of family violence. This is applicable across all counties, including DeKalb.

Depending on the details of a crime, including the scope and whether it constitutes a misdemeanor or felony, a person convicted of domestic violence may face imprisonment and fines.

A sentence may be more severe if it is not a first offense or if it involves child abuse or a sex crime.

An accusation of domestic violence on its own may allow a person to request a temporary protective order (TPO) against the accused. This may affect a person’s living situation and could put them at risk of being pushed out of their home or losing their property.

Facing a domestic abuse charge may also negatively impact an individual’s ability to favorably resolve a divorce or a child custody case.

A Dedicated DeKalb County Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Can Help

It can feel daunting to handle a domestic violence charge on your own. Not only are you facing potential fractures in your relationships, but failure to understand the legal process and the intricacies of domestic violence law in Georgia can lead to damaging mistakes for your case and your future.

A seasoned domestic abuse defense attorney in DeKalb County provides guidance and support when you need it most. They may be able to help you in several ways:

• They can work to get your case dismissed if your case does not meet the definition of domestic violence (i.e., child discipline) if you acted in self-defense, or if you are being falsely accused.
• They can provide effective representation in court to get you acquitted of the crimes you are facing, including filing motions, finding witnesses, and presenting evidence and arguments in front of a jury.
• They may be able to negotiate a favorable agreement with the prosecutor, including reducing a felony to a misdemeanor or dismissing additional charges.

Handling a domestic violence claim is complicated since there are many nuances related to home and family dynamics. These cases are also complex since they often hinge on one person’s word against that of another.

Working alongside a committed DeKalb domestic violence defense lawyer can be the optimal way to defend yourself against a domestic violence accusation and potential conviction. It may allow you the time and focus to center your attention on your relationships and your future.

FAQs About DeKalb County, GA Domestic Violence Defense Laws

Can a Domestic Violence Case Be Dropped in Georgia?

A domestic violence case cannot simply be dropped in Georgia. Once authorities are made aware of a potential crime having taken place, it is up to the prosecutor whether or not to pursue charges based on the evidence presented as defined by the law.

If you have been accused of a domestic violence crime, it is highly advised that you pursue the counsel of a qualified attorney to learn more about your options.

How Much Is a Defense Attorney in Georgia?

How much a criminal defense attorney in Georgia costs depends on multiple factors. Their location, years of practice, and their focus on certain areas of criminal defense may contribute to the final cost of a lawyer. Attorneys should inform you about the costs of representation, taking into consideration the scope of your case and the estimated time in which the case may be resolved.

How Long Does Domestic Violence Stay on Your Record in Georgia?

A domestic violence conviction can stay on your record in Georgia for the rest of your life, even if it was a misdemeanor. This may have long-term consequences on your employment, housing, and relationship prospects. You may have a conviction sealed or hidden in certain cases. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney may be able to help you submit a request to do so.

What Is the Statute of Limitations on Domestic Violence in Georgia?

There is a statute of limitations on domestic violence in Georgia depending on the type of crime. Felony domestic violence in Georgia has a statute of limitation of four years, while misdemeanors should be prosecuted within two years. The statute of limitations for specific crimes including those that involve a minor or an elderly person may be longer.

Contact a Knowledgeable DeKalb County Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Today

As soon as you face an accusation of domestic violence, it is important to contact a skilled DeKalb County domestic violence defense lawyer to ensure that your case is handled with optimal care. Do not leave your future uncertain. Seek the guidance you deserve.

Attorneys at Miller North & Brill work tirelessly to defend you if you are facing a family violence charge. We can take the time to focus on your specific case, utilizing our decades of knowledge of Georgia law and skills defending clients to favorably resolve your domestic violence case.

Schedule a consultation with a member of our team to learn more about your options.