No matter what the circumstances of your domestic violence charges, it is important that you obtain legal representation quickly. These experts can help to ensure that your rights are heard throughout the process. Without an experienced attorney, you will be subject to the whims of the prosecutors office and court system. Rather than using the public defender, who is usually overworked and inexperienced, you should retain an experienced criminal defense law firm.
Defending Criminal Domestic Violence Charges in Suffolk County, NY
In most cases a domestic violence charge is accompanied by a restraining order. If one has been filed against you, quick action is vital to your case and reputation. While you might think that it doesn’t matter because you have no interest in being around the other party, the restraining order will remain on your record. You might find yourself unable to find a good job or encounter similar issues related to your criminal record.
By law, you have a certain amount of time to challenge the restraining order. The sooner you can retain an attorney, the faster the law firm can begin putting together an early defense for this hearing. This might include interviewing certain witnesses or gathering other types of evidence.
Criminal law firms also have attorneys who are skilled negotiators. Once the charges have been filed, your lawyer can speak with the district attorney’s office on your behalf. In many cases it is better for both sides to settle the matter outside of court. However, that isn’t always true.
Before the case goes to court, your attorney will attempt to get the charges reduced or dropped. At the same time, your lawyer is building a stronger and stronger defense to prepare your case for court. Additionally, the legal team can advise you whether or not a plea bargain is in your best interest. In some cases it is better to have a minor infraction on your record than have your day in court end with felony convictions.
In the courtroom itself the attorneys are responsible for bringing witnesses to the stand and cross-examining those brought by the other side. A good lawyer will be prepared for these witnesses with pertinent questions to help bring your side to light.
Domestic violence charges are serious. Whether you are guilty of the charges or unjustly accused, you have the right to legal representation from the moment you are arrested forward. Don’t leave your future to chance; contact a qualified domestic violence attorney today.