Domestic Violence Lawyers
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence charges involve assault on a person with whom the defendant has a personal relationship with, including a family member or romantic partner. They are often known as Assault on Female (AOF) or Simple Assault. These charges are different than other crimes because of the “he said, she said” testimony that is often key evidence.
What acts of domestic violence does NC recognize?
- Attempting to or intentionally causing bodily injury
- Placing someone or a member of a person’s family or household in fear of imminent bodily injury or continued harassment
- Sexual assault
- Conduct that torments or terrifies the victim
Different Levels of Domestic Violence Punishment
Domestic violence (DV) charges are dependent on the relationship between the accused and the victim and most often result in a misdemeanor or felony charge. Manning Law Firm has seen many different DV situations and has defended countless individuals in Raleigh and the surrounding areas. Having a strong defense lawyer will help protect you from severe punishment and allow you to move forward with your life.
We Handle a Variety of Domestic Violence Charges
In North Carolina, both civil and criminal laws protect victims of domestic violence. Manning Law Firm is an expert in every aspect of assault crime charges, including: Assault on a Female (AOF), Domestic Battery and Domestic Simple Assault. We defend against allegations that can result in a restrictive protective order, criminal penalties or both.
Civil Domestic Violence Laws
What types of protective orders can defendants be served?
In NC, there are two types of protective orders: Emergency Protection Orders and Protection Orders.
What does it mean to have an emergency protection order against you?
An Emergency Protection Order (EPO) is a short-term protection order for a victim in immediate danger issued by the police at the time of the abuser’s arrest for domestic violence. An EPO lasts between three to seven days and gives the victim time to request a longer-term protection order.
What does it mean to have a domestic violence protective order against you?
A Domestic Violence Protective Order (“DVPO” or “50B order” or “domestic violence restraining order”) is a longer-term court order that prohibits the defendant from committing further abuse. There are two types: an ex parte temporary protective order (lasts until a full court hearing takes place) and a final domestic protective order (lasts up to 1 year). During such time, a perpetrator can be arrested for violating the order.
What happens if you violate a protective order?
EPOs and DVPOs are ordered in civil court. They won’t count as criminal convictions and do not appear on the defendant’s criminal record. However, a defendant can be arrested and criminally charged for violating a DVPO.
Criminal Domestic Violence Laws
What would a criminal conviction mean?
North Carolina does not have specific domestic violence charges. Instead, you’ll face a general misdemeanor or felony charge for your crime. However, if a judge determines that you are or were formerly in a personal relationship with the victim, you can receive additional criminal sentencing and show a domestic violence crime on your criminal record.
What should you do if you’ve been charged with domestic violence?
If you have been charged, it is crucial that you contact an experienced Domestic Violence attorney immediately. Waiting to obtain legal representation could put you at a severe disadvantage.
Why Choose Manning Law Firm?
Our attorneys have decades of experience fighting domestic violence charges. We’ve defended countless clients who have been investigated or accused of domestic violence crimes in the Triangle area. Our experience with these situations is our advantage – we know the best defense that can help you or your loved one move past the charge. Contact us today.
