Gaithersburg Domestic Violence Lawyer
If you are facing a domestic violence charge, the ramifications for your family, job, and freedom could be serious. A Gaithersburg domestic violence lawyer could help you protect your future. By enlisting the services of a criminal defense attorney, you may better prepare yourself to fight back against the accusations that you are facing.
Domestic Assault in Gaithersburg
The state of Maryland does not have a separate domestic violence statute, so individuals could potentially face the same criminal charges and penalties, whether they involve a domestic situation. Typically, domestic violence charges involve parties that are in a family or intimate relationship with one another. A common charge that frequently occurs in the context of domestic violence is assault.
The severity of an assault offense depends on whether it results in first-degree or second-degree assault charges. Under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-202, first-degree assault occurs when individuals intentionally cause or attempt to cause serious bodily injury to others. First-degree assault is a felony offense that could result in a maximum prison sentence of 25 years.
Second-degree assault under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-203 occurs when individuals threaten or make reasonably offensive physical contact with others. This offense is charged as a misdemeanor, but individuals still could serve up to ten years in prison and be ordered to pay a fine of $2,500. Consulting a domestic violence lawyer in Gaithersburg may be the most effective means of combatting these damaging allegations.
Potential Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
A criminal conviction for a domestic violence-related assault could have other unwanted consequences besides fines and incarceration. A domestic violence conviction, even for a misdemeanor assault, results in the loss of the ability to possess firearms under federal law. A conviction could also impact an individual’s career and any professional licenses they may have.
Individuals charged with domestic violence crimes could also become subject to protective orders, which could keep them from having contact with the alleged victims of the offenses. These orders could also affect employment prospects and be highly damaging to an individual’s reputation. A domestic violence attorney may be able to help Gaithersburg defendants avoid or minimize the impact of these repercussions.
Protective Order Violations
When a protective order is in place, any violations of that civil order could have serious consequences. These orders tend to contain provisions about refraining from contact with the alleged victims. They may also prohibit individuals from being present in specific locations, such as the residences, workplaces, and schools of the subjects covered by the order.
Under Md. Code, Fam. Law § 4-509, violating a protective order, can result in either civil contempt or criminal charges. For a first-time criminal conviction, persons may face a jail sentence of up to 90 days and a fine of up to $1,000. Subsequent violations could cause even stricter penalties.
Look to a Gaithersburg Domestic Violence Attorney for Advice
The aftermath of domestic violence charges could be unpleasant, stressful, and overwhelming. It is important to take steps to understand your rights and the potential consequences of a conviction. A Gaithersburg domestic violence lawyer could be vital in helping represent your interests throughout your criminal proceedings. Schedule a consultation today.