Charged with Domestic Violence: Do I Need a Buffalo Area Attorney?

In Erie County NY , domestic violence is a serious crime.  No  matter how small  the injuries to either party might be, an arrest,  charge, or conviction for domestic violence can have far reaching  consequences for anyone accused of the crime in the Buffalo area.   A person can be convicted of domestic violence not just  against a spouse, but against anyone with whom the person lives with or  has a child.  The individuals involved do not have to be of the opposite  gender or even related, nor do the pair have to be romantically  involved.  In fact, even a college student living with roommates can be  arrested for and convicted of domestic violence if he or she is ever  violent toward those roommates.

The Facts Make a Difference

The law is something that is very situation  specific.   The circumstances surrounding each accusation will also be taken  into consideration and weighed by the court in determining guilt .   Despite the fact that defendants are welcome to go pro se in court, anyone facing the serious charge of domestic violence is  highly encouraged to let an experienced attorney handle all aspects of  the defense. Attorneys are experienced and trained at presenting  legally good  arguments to the court that laymen may not realize they  can argue in their defense.

For example, what if the defendant acts in  self-defense?  Or walks in on a shocking scene that would shock most  reasonable people?  Or acts under a mistaken belief of facts?  All of  these questions and more represent the many nuances of criminal law that  can weigh factor  on the outcome of a charge for domestic violence.
Another plus  of partnering with an attorney to defend against  charges of domestic violence is that the attorney will be able to  explain any of the questions that a defendant might have about the  criminal process, chances of success, and the charges involved in  non-legal, simple to understand terms.

If you have been charged with DV call J John Sebastian Attorney at Law for a free consultation today.