Norwalk Domestic Violence Lawyer
Are you facing charges for a domestic dispute? Contact a top Norwalk domestic violence lawyer to advocate on your behalf. With sound legal advice from an experienced defense attorney, you could determine the best course of action for you and your family.
What is Considered Family Violence in Norwalk?
Connecticut law has no separate crime of domestic or family violence. Under Connecticut General Statutes (“C.G.S.”) § 46b-38a, crimes such as assault, disorderly conduct, or sexual assault could be considered domestic violence if they involve family or household members.
The exact criminal charge depends on the circumstances surrounding the case. For instance, whether bodily injury occurred, the proximity of children, the use of weapons, and other factors all can impact the severity and type of charge.
Who are Family and Household Members in CT?
Family and household members can include relatives by blood or marriage, individuals who are in or were formerly in dating relationships, individuals who share a child, and individuals who live or lived together, to qualify as family violence.
What Are the Consequences of a Domestic Violence Arrest?
As an attorney can attest, a domestic violence-related arrest in Norwalk can result in severe consequences. Depending on the underlying crime you can be facing jail time, fines, or both. In addition, immediately following a family violence arrest, the court will consider whether to implement restraining or protective orders.
An order of this kind could result in individuals being prohibited from returning to their homes, seeing their children, or otherwise communicating with family members.
Violation of a protective or restraining order is an independent crime that could lead to further serious charges. It also is likely to result in the strengthening of the terms and conditions of any such order.
Furthermore, any family violence that occurs in the presence of children is likely to trigger a Department of Children & Families (DCF) investigation. This investigation will occur directly after an arrest to ensure that any children involved are safe.
What Happens When I Go to Court?
Connecticut law requires that those arrested on domestic violence charges appear in court the business day following their arrest. At that time, the court may consider issuing a restraining order or protective order. Likewise, individuals can expect an interview with a family relations officer regarding the alleged domestic violence incident.
Not having legal counsel in place at this quick arraignment and restraining order hearing could result in a more stringent restraining order than the situation requires. The domestic violence court process moves rapidly, so getting immediate legal advice from a trusted Norwalk attorney is crucial.
Call a Norwalk Domestic Violence Attorney for Advice
Accusations of domestic violence can expose you to criminal penalties, including incarceration, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record.
If you were arrested for family violence, consider speaking with a Norwalk domestic violence lawyer at Mark Sherman Law as soon as possible. A dedicated attorney could fight to protect your interests at every step of the case.