Connecticut Roommate Violence lawyer
If you were accused of domestic violence against a roommate or housemate, you should work with a top criminal defense attorney. A Connecticut roommate violence lawyer could help protect your rights.
Is Assault on a Roommate Considered Domestic Violence?
Yes. While domestic violence is often thought of as intimate partner violence, two roommates who get into a fight can be subject to the same protections and requirements that apply to other family violence situations. If someone faces charges in Connecticut for a violent dispute with a roommate, they should contact an attorney.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence, termed “family violence” in state statutes, is not a separate criminal offense. Instead, family violence refers to violent or threatening actions committed against or between people in a domestic relationship. This includes people related by blood and marriage, but also people who have lived together, including roommates. Any questions about whether or not a roommate dispute may qualify as violence should be referred to a Connecticut attorney.
Will I be Subject to a Protective Order for Roommate Violence?
In domestic violence cases, Connecticut Criminal Courts may impose “criminal protective orders” that restrict communication and contact between the parties involved in the dispute. Connecticut Civil Courts can also impose restraining orders and protection orders in response to a request by a roommate who asserts that they feel threatened. In either case, an attorney could intervene right at the start to advocate for favorable terms in the order.
Additionally, a Connecticut attorney could help ensure that an individual subject to a roommate violence protective order understands specifically what is and what is not allowed. Violation of a protective order is a separate felony offense, so compliance is crucial.
What are the Penalties for Roommate Violence?
The penalties for domestic violence vary depending on the underlying crime. Some offenses, such as third-degree stalking or second-degree harassment, are misdemeanors punishable by three to six months in jail and a fine of $500-$1,000.
Other domestic violence offenses are treated as major felonies, especially if someone suffers severe injuries or a weapon is involved. Second-degree assault, for instance, may be treated as a Class C felony if it results in serious physical harm. The penalties for this type of felony include up to ten years in prison and a fine as high as $10,000, and the potential penalties increase if a crime escalates to first-degree assault. A Connecticut roommate violence is familiar with the penalties of such a dispute, and can explain in further detail how they may apply in a particular case.
Contact a Knowledgeable Connecticut Roommate Violence Attorney
If you are involved in a domestic dispute with your roommate, it is wise to consult an experienced Connecticut roommate violence lawyer for advice.
It is important to consider not only criminal penalties, but also the long-term problems that can come from having a criminal conviction on your record. A Connecticut roommate violence lawyer could work to build a strong defense and fight to protect your rights. Check out what prior clients have to say about working with us here and call Mark Sherman Law to learn how a lawyer can help in your situation.