At Patituce & Associates, LLC, we know that domestic violence allegations are sometimes made after a misunderstanding– as a way to seek revenge or to get an upper hand in a family law case. We are here to defend you against these damaging allegations that can impact every aspect of your life.
If you are accused of domestic violence, reach out to our experienced Akron domestic violence defense attorneys for a free and confidential consultation by calling (440) 471-7784.
How We Can Help
Our Akron domestic violence defense attorneys can mount a solid defense on your behalf by:
- Investigating the circumstances and uncovering reasons for false allegations
- Identifying independent evidence that refutes the alleged victim’s account
- Examining any physical evidence
- Challenging the prosecution’s evidence against you
- Giving you a straightforward assessment of your case
- Explaining your legal rights and options at each stage of your case
- Negotiating a favorable plea bargain on your behalf, when appropriate
- Representing you at trial
Turn to our experienced Akron criminal defense lawyers for help with your domestic violence charges.
Ohio Domestic Violence Laws
Ohio law defines domestic violence as harming a family or household member, which is defined as any of the following people who live or have lived with you, including:
- Your current or former spouse
- A romantic partner living with you
- Your parent or foster parent
- Your child
- Someone related to you by blood or marriage
- Your spouse’s parent, child, romantic partner living with them, former spouse, or other family member
A family member also includes someone with whom you share a co-parenting relationship. You can face domestic violence charges if you are accused of taking any of the following actions against a family or household member:
- Knowingly causing or attempting to cause physical harm to them
- Recklessly causing serious physical harm to them
- Making threats of force to make them believe you will cause them imminent physical harm
Potential Penalties for Ohio Domestic Violence Crimes
If you are convicted, the potential penalties you face depend on the offense you are convicted of. Here is a breakdown of some of the common domestic violence crimes Ohio defendants are charged with:
- First offense involving threats to use physical force – A second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of $250
- First offense involving physical harm – A first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail, up to five years of probation, and a fine of $1,000
- First offense involving the attempt to cause physical harm – A first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail, up to five years of probation, and a fine of $1,000
- Second or subsequent domestic violence offenses – A felony with a potential term of imprisonment of up to eight years in prison
- First violation of a protective order – A first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail, up to five years of probation, and a fine of $1,000
- Second or subsequent violation of a protective order – A fifth-degree felony, punishable by up to one-year imprisonment and a fine up to $2,500
Domestic violence convictions can prevent you from working in certain types of jobs. They are not eligible for expunction.
Contact Our Akron Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys for Immediate Assistance
At Patituce & Associates, LLC, we can mount a vigorous defense on your behalf. Contact us today so we can begin working immediately on your case.