Columbus Ohio Domestic Violence Attorneys
Being accused of domestic violence can be one of the toughest problems you will ever face. Because of the relationships involved and the complexity of the laws, domestic violence cases can be mentally and emotionally taxing. If you have been accused of a domestic violence crime, you are going to need an experienced criminal defense lawyer to help protect you and your rights.
Criminal courts in Columbus and throughout Ohio are extremely tough on domestic violence. The criminal defense lawyers at Yavitch & Palmer have represented many clients accused of domestic violence, and our attorneys and staff understand the stress this can cause, and they also have an advanced understanding of Ohio law.
Because domestic violence law is primarily set up to protect the victim, it can be a difficult charge to face. Many minor disagreements, even when absolutely no one is hurt, can result in a domestic assault arrest. To prevent further injuries and incidents, police often make domestic violence arrests first and sort out the facts of the incident later.
What is Domestic Violence under Ohio Law?
Domestic violence crimes are not limited to spousal relationships. The definition of domestic violence includes abusive relationships where physical violence, threatened violence, and/or other forms of abuse exist.
>>>More information about forms of domestic violence abuse.
It can apply to any on of the following relationships:
- Spouse
- Ex-spouse
- Roommate or Live-in Companion
- Someone you share a child with
- Any family member (sibling, aunt, etc)
- Parent or child
- Relatives by marriage
- Girlfriend or boyfriend
Most victims of domestic violence are women. ANY violence directed at loved ones is against the law. Being married to, divorced from, or dating someone does not entitle you to hit, threaten, or abuse them or anyone.
>>> More information about forms of domestic violence statistics.
Often, those arrested for domestic violence are immediately arrested the day of the incident. If you are granted bail, a temporary restraining order will be put in place to ensure you, the accused, and the alleged victim do not have any contact.
The kind of domestic violence charge and possible penalties and sentences vary depending on what occurred during the domestic violence incident.
Domestic Violence and Alcohol
Alcohol is involved in many Columbus Ohio domestic violence cases. In addition to causing the abuser to feel uninhibited or have "beer muscles," alcohol is responsible for many factors that are know to contribute to increased domestic violence:
- Impatience
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Jealousy
- Frustration
- Impotence
Children and Domestic Violence
Children can experience domestic violence directly, indirectly, or both. When a child is the victim of physical striking, verbal abuse, threats, or sexual misconduct, that crime can be charged as domestic violence.
If a child present while the abuse of another is taking place, child endangerment charges may apply. A child suffers abuse when witnessing domestic violence. Child endangerment is a very serious crime.
If you have been accused of a domestic violence crime in Columbus Ohio, you will need a dedicated domestic violence defense attorney experienced with domestic violence criminal cases. Our criminal defense lawyers have represented many people accused of domestic violence. Contact the Columbus Ohio criminal defense attorneys of Yavitch & Palmer at 614-224-6142 to arrange an appointment.
