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Facing criminal domestic violence charges absent private counsel may be contrary to your best interests. The criminal adjudication process is complex and nuanced. Instead, speaking with an experienced Phoenix domestic violence attorney for a comprehensive assessment of your legal options is a better course of action. Mushkatel, Robbins & Becker, PLLC includes a team of lawyers that will review every aspect of your case to determine what course of action you could take. In some cases, it may be possible to aggressively defend against the domestic violence charges, but in other cases negotiating for reduced penalties is the best course of action. If you have been accused of domestic assault in Phoenix, please contact our law offices at (480) 467-3434 to discuss your case at absolutely no cost.

What Constitutes Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is any act that is a violent or potentially violent crime against someone with whom the defendant has a specific type of relationship. Criminal charges are categorized as domestic violence if:

  • The defendant and the victim are married, were formally married, or currently live together;
  • The victim or the defendant is pregnant by the other party;
  • The victim is related to the defendant or the defendant’s spouses – some examples include parent, grandparent, grandchild, brother, sister, in law, or stepchild;
  • The victim is a child who resides with or has resided in the same household as the defendant; or
  • The two parties have a romantic relationship.

In general, if the alleged victim is related to the defendant, lives with the defendant, or is someone with whom the defendant has had a sexual relationship, the offense may fall under the umbrella of domestic violence.

fist raised in anger

What Are Examples of Domestic Violence Charges?

There are many types of criminal acts that may be considered domestic violence, including, the following:

  • Physical abuse: This can involve hitting, pushing, kicking, or slapping. Domestic violence charges can also result from throwing objects, smashing things, or even just threatening to commit an act of physical violence.
  • Sexual abuse: This is when someone pressures or forces another to commit an act that is sexual in nature.
  • Verbal abuse: This is when a significant other puts the victim down, yells, belittles, and name calls.
  • Emotional abuse: It is emotional abuse when someone threatens, frightens, or neglects his or her significant other.

What Are The Consequences of Domestic Assault?

Prosecutors often vigilantly pursue individuals charged with domestic battery. A conviction may result in jail time, heavy fines, the creation of a criminal record, the loss of gun privileges, limitations in child visitation rights, mandatory counseling, probation, or even restrictions regarding where the defendant can live. Domestic charges involving weapons or injuries often have the most severe consequences as they typically result in dangerous felony charges. If it is your first offense, and the incident did not result in a serious injury, you may be able to negotiate for probation instead of jail time. Alternative sentencing options such as attendance in a domestic violence counseling program may be a viable alternative as well.

Phoenix Domestic Violence Lawyers Protecting Your Reputation

If you are facing charges related to alleged domestic violence, please call the law offices of Mushkatel, Robbins & Becker, PLLC immediately. We understand that your personal life, job, career, and reputation are at risk. Our knowledgeable Phoenix domestic violence attorneys offer no-cost consultations at (480) 467-3434. Please contact us to find out how we can help you fight these serious accusations.