Chantilly Domestic Violence Lawyer

Committing any type of assault or battery against a household or family member is considered domestic violence in Chantilly and could result in arrest, criminal charges, and prosecution. Convictions for domestic violence could result in such penalties as incarceration and a fine.

If you been arrested for domestic violence in Chantilly and are facing criminal charges or prosecution, a Chantilly domestic violence lawyer could provide legal representation.

Attempting to represent yourself when facing charges of domestic violence can be challenging, especially if you have prior arrests or convictions for domestic violence. Let an experienced criminal law attorney advocate for you, safeguard your legal rights, and work to obtain the best possible resolution for you.

Offenses Involving Domestic Violence

The criminal code of Virginia describes domestic violence as assault or battery against a family or household member. Offenses involving domestic violence in Chantilly include:

• Strangulation
• Assault or battery
• Malicious or unlawful wounding
• Aggravated malicious wounding
• Using a caustic substance to cause malicious bodily injury

A skilled domestic violence attorney could answer questions about other forms of domestic violence that could result in being arrested, charged, or prosecuted in Chantilly.

Penalties for Domestic Violence in Chantilly

Domestic violence is categorized as a Class 1 misdemeanor in Chantilly. The penalties for Class 1 misdemeanor offenses include a sentence of up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500.

More severe penalties could be imposed on individuals with prior arrests or convictions for domestic violence. A third conviction for domestic assault and battery is a Class 6 felony, which is punishable upon conviction by a sentence of one to five years in prison and a fine up to $2,500.

A seasoned Chantilly domestic violence attorney could answer questions about the penalties for first or subsequent convictions of domestic violence.

Domestic Violence and Protective Orders

When allegations of domestic violence are made, a protective order could be issued by a judge. Protective orders are established to protect the alleged victims of domestic violence by prohibiting an individual accused of domestic violence from making contact with the alleged victim(s).

For many individuals charged with domestic violence, that could mean they are legally prohibited from having contact with their spouse, partner, or children.

Three types of protective orders can be issued by judges in Chantilly. Emergency protective orders are valid for just a few days and are often issued shortly after law enforcement officers respond to a domestic violence situation. Preliminary protective orders are valid for about two weeks and are issued during the waiting period for a final hearing to determine if a regular long-term protective order will be granted.

Regular protective orders provide long-term protection and are valid for two years at a time. Alleged victims can petition the court to extend a regular protective order for an additional two years and can continue to do so indefinitely. A knowledgeable domestic violence lawyer in Chantilly could answer questions about protective orders and explain the legal process for requesting to have a protective order lifted.

Consult with a Chantilly Domestic Violence Attorney Today

Facing charges of domestic violence can be a stressful experience. The situation can feel even more overwhelming if a protective order has been issued that prevents you from seeing your family members. A dedicated Chantilly domestic violence lawyer could provide legal assistance if you are facing criminal charges or prosecution for domestic violence.

You could have someone advocating for your rights and fighting for an optimal outcome when you have a domestic violence attorney on your side representing you. Contact a compassionate domestic violence attorney in Chantilly today.