Domestic Violence Lawyer in Columbus

Defending Your Reputation and Future

Domestic violence is considered any act of violence that occurs between a household or family members. This could include verbal or physical abuse and can quickly lead to severe consequences for a defendant. In addition to prison time and other repercussions, a conviction also carries a serious social stigma. The stakes are high, so do not wait a moment longer to call the Columbus domestic violence lawyers at The Meranda Law Firm LTD.

The penalties for domestic violence can vary substantially, especially due to how varied the crimes are within this category. You may be facing thousands of dollars in fines, mandatory jail time, anger management or counseling classes, and even time behind bars. You cannot afford to take on these charges alone!

The bottom line is that our firm can provide the solid representation that you need during this challenging time. We have all the legal resources and tools needed to fight your domestic violence charges and win!

If you are facing charges of domestic violence, speak with our attorney today about protecting your future!

What Constitutes Domestic Violence in Ohio?

Domestic violence is defined as the intentional use of violence or the threat of violence against a family member or a close associate, such as a boyfriend/girlfriend or roommate. This means you could be charged for simply threatening another, even if no action was taken against them.

Types of Domestic Violence

5 Things a Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Do for Your Charges

A domestic violence charge can throw your life upside down. You're facing jail time, fines, and social stigma that can last a lifetime. However, you can fight back. There are important things that a Columbus domestic violence attorney can do to help you with your domestic violence charges.

Here are five things a domestic violence lawyer can do if you’re facing a domestic violence charge:

1. Help You Understand the Charges

Domestic violence charges are complex. A domestic violence charge may be a misdemeanor or a felony depending on a number of various factors. Your Columbus domestic violence lawyer makes sure that you understand the charges you're up against and what the state needs to prove against you to win their case.

2. Build a Strong Defense

Even though domestic violence is a serious charge, there are a number of defenses available to any domestic violence charge. The preparation for a domestic violence case begins long before the trial date. An experienced attorney will help you prepare a case strategy and methodically build the evidence. They know what evidence is admissible in court and how to gather evidence in order to have a strong defense.

3. Subpoena Witnesses

A domestic violence charge often comes down to the credibility of witnesses. You need to have all of the witnesses present at your trial. Your domestic violence attorney can prepare subpoenas to make sure that witnesses are court-ordered to appear at your trial.

4. Object to the Evidence

When domestic violence charges hinge on the evidence and witness credibility, the state may try to rely on inadmissible evidence like hearsay. They might try to use unrelated incidents or prior convictions against you.

One thing that your attorney can do is bring preliminary motions regarding the evidence that the state wants to present at trial. They can ask the court to keep out evidence that is unfair or prejudicial which might keep you from having a fair trial.

5. Understand All the Options

A domestic violence defense is inherently complex. By building a strong defense, you may convince the state attorney to offer a plea deal. If you get a plea offer, you need to know if you should accept it. In addition, in Ohio, there are multiple types of case resolutions for domestic violence including deferred prosecution or diversion. Your attorney can help you understand all the options.

What Should I Ask A Domestic Violence Lawyer?

Before hiring a lawyer, it is important that you ask certain questions to help ensure that you are on the same page.

Here are some questions to ask your lawyer:

1. Can you tell me about your experience with domestic violence cases?
2. Have you worked on any high-profile domestic violence cases?
3. How do you approach domestic violence cases involving substance abuse or mental health issues?
4. Can you explain the potential consequences of a domestic violence conviction?
5. How will you communicate with me during my case?
6. Will you be personally handling my case, or will it be delegated to someone else in your firm?
7. What is your success rate in domestic violence cases?
8. Can you estimate how long my case may take to resolve?
9. How do you charge for your services – hourly, flat rate, retainer, etc.?
10. Do you have any references from past clients I can speak with about their experience working with you on their domestic violence cases?

It's important to feel confident and comfortable with the attorney you choose to represent you in a domestic violence case, so asking these questions can help guide your decision-making process.

Challenge the Prosecution's Case Today

If you are facing domestic abuse charges, it is to your benefit to contact a Columbus, OH domestic violence attorney from our firm for seasoned counsel and support. We can examine the details surrounding your charges and build a defense that stands up against even the toughest accusations.

We at The Meranda Law Firm LTD understand the difficulties that can come with being charged with domestic violence. Such charges can have a profoundly negative impact on an individual's personal life, and they may even affect their employment opportunities. We believe that those facing domestic violence charges are entitled to a fair and just trial and are ready to stand up for their rights at any time!