Towson Domestic Violence Defense Attorney

Criminal Defense Attorney for Clients Facing Domestic Violence Charges in Maryland

Domestic violence is a serious concern in Maryland and other parts of the United States. Spouses, children, or other family members may suffer serious physical and emotional harm due to abuse, assault, or other related offenses. Because of this, law enforcement officials will often act swiftly in response to accusations of domestic violence, arresting alleged perpetrators, putting protections in place to prevent future acts of abuse, and pursuing criminal charges. Unfortunately, some of these cases occur due to false accusations or misunderstandings, and those who are facing these types of accusations and charges will need to understand their options for defense.

At Seger Law, LLC, we understand the gravity of domestic violence charges and their impact on all family members involved. We work to ensure that our clients can address these types of accusations and defend against criminal charges related to domestic abuse or other violent crimes. We can help those who have been accused of domestic violence determine the best steps to take to prevent criminal convictions while protecting their reputations and their family relationships.

Domestic Violence Offenses in Maryland

Under Maryland law, domestic abuse may involve a variety of acts committed against members of a person's family. A person may commit domestic abuse against their spouse or ex-spouse; an unmarried partner that they cohabitate with; a child, stepchild, or parent who resides in their home; another family member related to them by blood, marriage, or adoption; the other parent of their child; or a current or former dating partner that they had a sexual relationship with during the past year. There are several types of offenses that may fall under the umbrella of domestic violence, including:

• Assault: In the context of domestic violence, assault can range from threats of harm to actual physical attacks.
• Sexual assault: Non-consensual sexual acts involving a person's spouse, partner, or other family members are considered abuse, and a person could face charges of rape, sexual offenses, or other related crimes.
• False imprisonment: If a person restricts someone else's freedom of movement without legal authority or the person's consent, they may be charged with domestic abuse. These actions may include situations where one partner prevents the other from leaving a shared home or another location.
• Stalking: Repeated, unwanted surveillance or contact that induces fear or concern for one's safety or the safety of someone close to them may lead to charges of stalking or harassment.
• Revenge pornography: Sharing or distributing intimate images or videos of someone without their consent is illegal. These actions may be taken as a form of retaliation or control, and they may be considered abuse.
• Other actions causing or threatening serious bodily harm: Even if actions taken against family members do not lead to criminal charges for one of the offenses detailed above, they may still be considered abuse if a person suffered harm or feared that they would be injured.

Responding to Protective Orders

When a person is accused of domestic violence, the alleged victim may request a protective order to prevent future abuse and ensure that they and their family members will remain safe. A person who is served with a protective order will need to take certain steps to protect their rights and respond to the accusations against them, including:

• Comply immediately: Even if a protective order was based on false accusations, it is a legally binding court order that must be followed by both the petitioner and the respondent. Violating a protective order can result in criminal penalties.
• Seek legal counsel: By consulting with an attorney, a person can ensure that they understand the terms of a protective order and their options for defending against the accusations of domestic violence.
• Prepare for the hearing: A hearing will be held where both parties can present their case and a judge will determine whether the protective order should remain in place. Legal representation during these hearings is crucial, and a skilled lawyer can present arguments and evidence to show that the protective order is not necessary and should be lifted.

Defending Against Domestic Violence Accusations

In addition to addressing a protective order, a person accused of domestic violence or domestic battery will need to defend against any related criminal charges. During these types of cases, there are several defense strategies can be employed, including:

• Demonstrating lack of intent: A person may be able to prove that their actions were not intended to harm or threaten the alleged victim.
• Self-defense: A person may be able to argue that any actions taken against the alleged victim were done to defend themselves or others against harm.
• False accusations: It may be possible to provide evidence that the allegations are unfounded or fabricated. For example, a person accused of stalking or harassment may show that text messages they supposedly sent to the alleged victim were faked.
• Insufficient evidence: In some cases, charges may be dismissed if there is no evidence showing that abuse occurred. For instance, the alleged victim may claim that they suffered injuries due to domestic violence, but if there are no medical records of these injuries and no witnesses to corroborate their claims, it may be possible to have the charges dismissed.

Contact Our Towson, Maryland Domestic Violence Lawyer

In Maryland, domestic violence offenses are taken very seriously, and they carry significant legal consequences. When addressing these charges or dealing with the implications of a protective order, Seger Law, LLC can help ensure that your rights will be protected throughout the legal process. To set up a free consultation, contact us today at 443-208-4692.