Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in New Orleans
With increased media coverage of domestic violence within homes, law enforcement and courts are working tirelessly to put offenders behind bars, pursuing the strictest penalties available. These cases can be some of the trickiest to defend due to the strong, emotional, and political policy aspects. Quite often, after the accused abuser is arrested and charged, the alleged victim wants to drop the charges. It is important for you to understand that once an arrest happens the decision to proceed with the case rests in the prosecutors’ hands. Prosecutors are rarely willing to just drop domestic violence charges. There is a fear that someone arrested for domestic abuse will hurt or even kill the victim later.
You will need a distinguished New Orleans domestic violence defense attorney because the district attorney will seek a protective order against you, which will prohibit you from seeing or speaking to the alleged victim in the case. Such orders can be difficult — you will be restricted from accessing your home or seeing your children. If you have been arrested for domestic abuse battery, it is vitally important that you do not hesitate to contact a New Orleans criminal attorney as quickly as possible.
What is domestic abuse battery in Louisiana?
Domestic abuse battery is the intentional use of force or violence committed by one household member upon the person of another household member. It can be a misdemeanor or felony. Domestic violence is also an enhanceable offense – with each additional conviction comes stiffer fines and jail sentences.
Domestic violence cases might involve:
- Stalking
- Harassment / Harassing Telephone Calls
- Cyberstalking
- Restraining Orders
- Violation of a Protective Order
- Criminal Neglect of Family
- Criminal Abandonment
Penalties for Domestic Violence in New Orleans
Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges under domestic violence law, the penalties associated with a domestic violence conviction can be quite severe. This offense is also not eligible for expungement under Louisiana law.
Some consequences might include the following:
- Jail time
- Probation
- Mandatory treatment programs
- Pay restitution to the victim
- Hefty fines
- Restraining orders and orders of protection against you
- Restrictions on interacting with your family
- Eviction from your home
- Loss of certain civil liberties, such as firearm ownership