Rockland County Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Rockland County Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

Being accused of or charged with domestic violence can be catastrophic to your life. An accusation or charge that carries such a significant stigma can wreak havoc on your social life, your employment status, your personal relationships, and even your housing situation. It can follow you forever. If you are ever charged with domestic violence, it is vital that you seek out a Rockland County domestic violence defense lawyer who can help you build your defense.

How Should You Approach the Charges?

When you are formally charged with domestic violence, many people may immediately make up their minds about you and about the charges. Some may support you; others may condemn you. If you want to try and stay ahead of the charges, it is advisable to seek out a Rockland County criminal defense lawyer who can start building your defense strategy and work to protect your reputation.

It is highly recommended that you consult with a lawyer to ensure your case does not fall out of your control. You may feel a desire to handle your case on your own. Feel free to do so. There is no law that says you need to hire a lawyer to handle your domestic violence case. However, having someone on your side who understands New York domestic violence law and can anticipate any unfortunate surprises that may arise can only help your case in the long run.

Possible Defenses in a Rockland County Domestic Violence Case

When you are initially arrested and charged with domestic violence in Rockland County, you may feel like you have no options. That may not necessarily be true. Your lawyer can help you devise a strategy for your defense that may be dependent on proving some factors.

Here are some possible defenses that you and your lawyer may be able to use for your case:

• Lack of Evidence: In a domestic violence case, the burden of proof lies with the prosecutor. It is up to them to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. If the prosecution does not have enough evidence to prove that you were the one who committed the crime, your lawyer can use that as a viable defense. The less evidence the prosecution brings to the case, the easier it may be to poke holes in the case.
• Strong Alibi.: One of the most effective strategies that your lawyer may use to prove your innocence is a strong alibi. When you first bring your case to your lawyer, one of the first things they may do for your case is to establish your whereabouts at the time of the crime. If you were somewhere else at the time, and you can prove it, that can really help your case. Photos, video footage, and witness statements will be greatly beneficial.
• False Accusations: Sometimes, a defendant is falsely accused of crimes in an effort to tarnish their reputation. It may be done out of spite, to protect someone else, or out of self-preservation. It tends to happen in divorce cases, in which a jilted spouse may try to claim domestic violence in order to gain more alimony or gain custody of any children. Poking holes in their story is an effective way to unravel the false accusation.

Rockland County Domestic Violence Law FAQs

Q: How Are Domestic Violence Cases Handled in Rockland County?

A: In New York, domestic violence cases are handled in either criminal court or family court, depending on the case at hand. In either case, victims can seek a protection order, but only in criminal court can the alleged abuser be prosecuted. After an arrest, the alleged abuser will appear before a judge in an arraignment, and a case will be brought against them. It is up to the defense lawyer to prove the alleged abuser’s innocence.

Q: Do You Have to Be Married to Face a Domestic Violence Charge?

A: No, you do not have to be married to face a domestic violence charge. Domestic violence is associated with married couples, dating couples, and people who were once romantically involved. However, it can also occur between people who have no romantic connection. It can happen between family members, between roommates, between friends, and other close relationships. Domestic violence describes violence that occurs between people who are close.

Q: How Long Do Most Domestic Violence Cases Last?

A: There’s no telling how long a domestic violence case will last. It depends largely on the circumstances of the case and the details unique to every individual situation. Just because one domestic violence case is resolved in a matter of months, it does not necessarily mean that yours will, too. If the case is complex and there is a lot of evidence to go through, it may take longer for your case to be settled.

Q: Does Emotional Abuse Go on Your Record?

A: Yes, emotional abuse goes on your record. Emotional abuse is a form of domestic violence, as it is still a form of abuse intended to hurt another person. In New York, domestic abuse is a crime, and if you are charged with it, it can have lasting consequences and penalties, including jail time, hefty fines, and a lasting criminal record. If you are ever charged with emotional abuse, it is recommended that you seek out a domestic violence lawyer.

Reach Out to a Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Today

Being charged with domestic violence can be devastating to your future. A charge like that can follow you everywhere, change your friends and family’s opinion of you, and keep you from promising employment opportunities thanks to a criminal record. If you are ever accused of or charged with domestic violence, it is vital that you seek the assistance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer who can help you build your defense and fight for your innocence.

The legal team at Greco Neyland, PC, knows how to help you by developing your case, helping you gather evidence, and advocating on your behalf in a court of law if it comes to that. Contact us to speak with a valued team member and schedule a consultation.