Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers in New Jersey
Domestic Violence Laws
According to the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act of 1991, also known as the New Jersey Domestic Violence Act, victims of spousal abuse, assault and battery, child abuse, and other domestic violence crimes can seek relief both in the form of a restraining order and in the form of a criminal charge against the batterer. According to the official New Jersey Judiciary website, victims can seek the following kinds of relief:
- Punitive damages
- Emergency and ongoing support for both the victim and dependants
- Temporary custody of any children
- Exclusive possession of a residence, such as a home or apartment
- Medical bills to compensate the victim and dependants
- Compensatory damage and money to pay for mortgage or rent
Defendants may be prohibited from doing the following:
- Committing additional acts of domestic violence or returning to the scene where the alleged battering took place
- Going to locations where the victim works or lives
- Making any personal, written, oral or other contact with the victim or designated others
- Stalking, threatening, or threatening to stalk or hurt the victim
- Possessing weapons
Beyond the restrictions and punishments that defendants face, they must also contend with indirect, grueling consequence of the charges. For instance, family members and work associates may presume you to be guilty without hearing the facts. If the allegations against you have been made up or exaggerated, you may have to execute counter-measures, such as a counter suit against the accuser, to clear your name and protect your rights. If convicted – even of a misdemeanor domestic violence crime – you could go to jail for up to six months, lose your medical or other professional license, be forced to pay significant money in forced restitution and fines and other costs, and endure embarrassing and strict probation terms.
Designing a Better Defense: How to Protect Yourself and Heal Your Family
Whether a squabble with your spouse got "out of hand" and ended in minor violence; or you face caused injury to a minor or chronically neglected a young child or elderly relative under your care, you want to understand not only how to build a vigorous defense but also how to deal with the underlying issues that instigated the criminal behavior.
Although you can represent yourself in a domestic violence case, like any other case, this tactic is very risky. You are essentially putting your future in the hands of the prosecutor and judge. Crafting an effective defense requires lots of experience and theoretical knowledge of the law. To that end, get critical help by calling 609-240-0040 to set up your free consultation with Lependorf & Silverstein, two highly respected Central New Jersey domestic violence attorneys. Call today, or contact us online to learn more about the firm and its approach.