Westport Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic violence, also known as family violence or domestic abuse, is a serious crime in Connecticut. If you have been arrested in Westport for domestic violence, you should immediately take steps to defend the charges against you. Important decisions in these case are often made within the first 24 hours after law enforcement is called, and you will need the assistance of an experienced Westport domestic violence lawyer as soon as possible.

Domestic violence situations are often emotionally charged, highly sensitive, and can escalate quickly. An attorney can help you protect and repair your relationships with your family while avoiding serious potential jail time. A Westport domestic violence lawyer will help you understand your rights and the charges against you with compassion and discretion. An attorney can help you defend your freedom, as well as your reputation and standing in the community.

What Actions are Considered Domestic Violence in Westport?

The state does not have one specific crime for domestic abuse. Instead, those accused of spousal abuse may be charged with a crime such as threatening, stalking, or assault.

Essentially, an act of family violence in CT is virtually any crime or threat that occurs between people in a domestic relationship. Purely verbal threats will not count, however, unless there is a present danger and likelihood that physical violence will soon follow. Relationships that trigger family violence provisions include former and current spouses, people who have lived together, and people who are either currently dating or recently dated.

Severity of the Charge

Connecticut has many laws designed to protect victims of domestic violence and family abuse situations, contained in Chapter 815e of the Connecticut General Code. These types of crimes carry severe sentences. Domestic violence criminal charges are pursued aggressively in Connecticut, and may also result in the long-term involvement of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) even after jail sentences have been served.

The following people are considered household or family members under Connecticut’s domestic violence statute:

  • Parents and children
  • Spouses or former spouses
  • Siblings and in-laws
  • Unrelated people living together
  • Intimate couples

Benefits of an Attorney

Domestic violence charges can lead to harsh penalties under Connecticut law. The potential consequences can escalate quickly, as defendants will typically appear in court the day after their arrest.

Any statements made at this arraignment may later be used by the prosecution in their criminal case, making the assistance of an experienced Westport domestic violence lawyer necessary even at this early stage in the proceedings. Defendants who do not fully understand the charges against them may inadvertently harm their position by speaking to law enforcement or making statements on the record.

What Happens During The First Court Hearing Following a Domestic Violence Accusation?

The first court hearing in a domestic violence case can also result in a restraining or protective order being entered, which may contain physical and communications limitations that can be very hard to reverse. An attorney with experience defending against these types of charges will be able to argue for leniency with the judge and help avoid the imposition of overly harsh restrictions.

Contacting a Westport Domestic Violence Attorney

Being charged with domestic violence can be overwhelming. Situations between family and household members often get out of hand quickly, and can lead to serious legal ramifications if charges are brought. Often, tempers flare during family arguments and members of law enforcement are called in the heat of the moment.

Even if everyone has cooled down by the time law enforcement officers arrive, they are often still required to make an arrest. If you are facing domestic violence charges, your freedom, your relationships, your home, and your reputation are all on the line. Make sure you have someone on your side to protect your rights in court. Contact an experienced domestic violence lawyer in Westport immediately to prepare a proper legal strategy to help effectively defend your charge.

Client Review

Title: Communicative and Straightforward

Title:
N/A Connecticut Domestic Violence Information Center 29 Fifth Street, Suite 2
Stamford
CT 06905
Phone: (203) 276-9443

I had a matter come up and needed to speak to a lawyer quickly. I called Mark's number at midnight on a Friday night. I explained my situation, he quickly evaluated it, and put me at ease. He also gave me very straightforward advice and an assessment of the best and worst case scenarios. He then got my case dismissed and I did not even need to enter a court room or interact with a Judge or prosecutor. It was really an amazing job.

Rating: ★★★★★ 5 / 5 stars
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