Wilton Third-Degree Strangulation Lawyer
If you were arrested for third-degree strangulation, consult a top domestic violence attorney as soon as possible. A Wilton third-degree strangulation lawyer can create a defense strategy tailored to the strengths of your case to help reach a positive outcome.
When is Strangulation Considered Domestic Violence?
Family or domestic violence is not a specific crime under the Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.). Many different offenses, including strangulation, can be treated as domestic violence offenses based on the relationship between the party alleging violent conduct and the party allegedly responsible for that conduct.
Domestic or family violence crimes are those which occur between people considered to be “family or household members” under C.G.S. §46b-38a. These relationships include:
- Spouses
- Former spouses
- People who have parented a child together even if they never lived together
- Parents and children
- People related by blood or marriage
- People living together or who have lived together
- People currently or recently in a dating relationship
When strangulation is alleged in a domestic situation, Wilton third-degree strangulation attorneys know that the court will impose a protective order restricting certain types of contact between the parties.
A violation of one of the terms of the protective order constitutes a separate felony offense in addition to the strangulation charge. For this reason, it is vital to understand the terms of a protective order and how to comply with them.
What is Strangulation in the Third Degree?
Under C.G.S. §53a-64cc, an individual commits third degree strangulation if they restrain another person by the neck or throat or obstruct their nose or mouth and either restrict that person’s blood flow or impair their ability to breathe. If this type of action is committed “recklessly,” then the act may be treated as strangulation in the third degree.
However, if someone undertakes this action negligently, then a Wilton third-degree strangulation attorney could argue that they have not committed the offense charged because their conduct does not satisfy the elements of the statute.
What are the Penalties for Third-Degree Strangulation?
As a Class A misdemeanor, strangulation in the third degree may be penalized by up to a year in jail, a fine as high as $2,000, a period of probation, or any combination of the three. The additional consequences of a criminal record, however, could be even worse.
Online searches revealing a conviction for strangulation could make employers, lenders, and even new friends reluctant to trust you. Even an arrest record can cause problems unless it is expunged.
Consult a Wilton Third-Degree Strangulation Attorney
If you are facing charges of strangulation in the third degree, an attorney could assist in numerous ways to minimize the negative consequences. A Wilton third-degree strangulation lawyer could work to get charges reduced or dismissed or negotiate an alternative sentence. To learn more about the possibilities that may be available in your case, call Mark Sherman Law for a consultation.