Domestic violence has become far too common to be taken casually. It involves an act of aggression towards a spouse or marriage partner. Domestic violence affects all social classes, and the sooner we find institutions to protect the victims, the better.
Domestic violence is currently treated as a severe crime in all states. This is because it results in injuries and, in some instances, even sexual assault. Therefore, depending on the magnitude of the harm done, offenders will receive different penalties.
Gone are the days when people associated domestic violence with women. Men are now coming out in numbers to report domestic abuse from their spouses. Moreover, domestic violence is not just limited to spouses; it includes any acts of violence done to the family members or anyone living in that household.
At-Risk Groups
No matter the gender, race, or religion, domestic violence can happen to anyone. However, statistics have shown that black women are three times more likely to experience domestic violence than other racial groups. Therefore, it is no surprise that domestic violence significantly contributes to deaths among young black women.
The COVID-19 pandemic saw domestic violence cases surge as people were confined to their houses with minimal movements and social interactions. This raised the need for secure homes for domestic violence victims.
Penalties for Being Convicted of Domestic Violence
Below are some of the consequences of being convicted of domestic violence:
Probation
Depending on the state, a domestic violence offender may face up to five years of probation. Typically, states have a probation period of one to two years, but the period is higher for domestic violence cases. Violating the guidelines provided during the probation period could lead to serving a jail term of more than a year.
Court-Ordered Classes
The court may require a person convicted of domestic violence to attend domestic violence classes. In addition, they may pay fines or go to jail. An offender could receive multiple penalties for their crimes.
Misdemeanor to Felony
Domestic abuse is worse when the offender uses a weapon of any kind, their fists excluded, to hurt other family members. Weapons may include knives, guns, or other blunt objects that increase the case to a felony. The individual could be charged with assault with a deadly weapon as well as assault and battery.
Other Consequences
Most employers are sensitive to their reputation, and the nature of some jobs like social services may not tolerate convictions such as domestic violence. Therefore, a domestic violence convict could lose employment. Other consequences may include eviction from public and private property and difficulties getting loans or credit cards.
Getting a Lawyer
It is imperative to hire a domestic violence lawyer before filing a claim in court. They offer legal advice and help you build a case against your offender. Be sure to disclose everything to your lawyer, as this information will not only help you win the case but could also be used in getting protection such as restraining orders for you and your family.
Similarly, if domestic violence charges are falsely filed against you, Ryan McPhie of Grand Canyon Law Group will help you prove your innocence by providing substantial evidence in your favor. A lawyer could help you resolve custody disputes in court. If a judgment is passed, they will help negotiate a favorable penalty.
To reduce the number of domestic violence victims, you can contact the police if you are a victim or a witness of domestic abuse. You can also refer victims to institutions that offer support to them.
