Denver Family Violence Defense Attorney

Facing family violence charges in Denver can be stressful. These accusations often have serious legal and personal consequences, affecting your freedom, reputation, and relationships. Seeking the guidance of an experienced Denver domestic violence defense attorney can make all the difference in protecting your rights and building a strong defense. At the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, we are here to help you through this challenging time.

Common Crimes Under the Family Violence Category

Family violence charges can include a range of offenses, each carrying its penalties. Here are some of the most common crimes that fall under this category:

Domestic Assault

This charge involves causing physical harm or threatening harm to a spouse, partner, or household member. Even minor injuries or unsubstantiated threats can lead to serious accusations.

Domestic Battery

Domestic battery typically refers to intentional physical contact that is harmful or offensive, such as hitting or shoving. Charges can be filed even if the injuries are minor.

Child Abuse or Neglect

Failing to provide adequate care, physically harming a child, or neglecting their needs can lead to child abuse charges. These cases are taken very seriously in Colorado.

Elder Abuse

This involves causing harm, neglecting care, or exploiting a senior citizen, especially someone in your care. Elder abuse charges can arise from physical, emotional, or financial harm.

Harassment and Stalking

Repeatedly contacting or following a family member in a way that causes fear can result in harassment or stalking charges. These cases often hinge on communication records and witness statements.

Violations of Protective or Restraining Orders

You may face additional charges if you’ve been issued a restraining order and fail to comply. Even accidental contact can result in legal trouble.

False Imprisonment

Preventing a family member from leaving a location or restricting their freedom can lead to false imprisonment charges. This offense is treated seriously, even if no physical harm occurs.

Sexual Assault Within a Family or Relationship

These charges involve non-consensual acts within a family or intimate relationship. The penalties for these allegations are severe, and defending against them requires skilled representation.

A top-rated family violence defense lawyer in Denver can explain your specific charges and help you understand the potential consequences a conviction can have.

Consequences of a Family Violence Conviction

The impact of a family violence conviction can be life-changing. Here are some of the most significant consequences:

• Criminal Penalties: Fines, probation, or even jail time are common penalties for family violence convictions. The severity depends on the charges and evidence presented.
• Mandatory Counseling or Anger Management Programs: Many individuals convicted of family violence are required to attend counseling or anger management programs as part of their sentencing.
• Restraining Orders: Restraining orders can disrupt your family dynamics, restricting where you can live and who you can contact.
• Loss of Child Custody or Visitation Rights: A conviction can affect your parental rights, making it difficult to maintain custody or visitation with your children.
• Impact on Employment and Professional Licenses: Some employers may terminate your position if you’re convicted of family violence, especially if your job requires a clean criminal record.
• Damage to Reputation and Personal Relationships: A conviction can harm your reputation in the community and strain your relationships with friends and family.

Defenses Against Family Violence Charges

There are several ways to defend against family violence charges, depending on the details of the case. Possible defenses that our domestic abuse defense lawyer near me will use include:

False Accusations

In some cases, accusations are made out of revenge or during custody battles. Demonstrating that the claims are false can be a strong defense strategy.

Self-Defense

If you acted to protect yourself or someone else from harm, this can be used as a defense. Evidence such as injuries or witness testimony can support your case.

Lack of Evidence

The prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak or unreliable, your attorney can challenge its validity.

Consent or Mutual Participation

Sometimes, an incident may involve mutual participation rather than one-sided aggression. Proving this can shift the narrative of the case.

How Our Denver Family Violence Defense Attorney Can Help

If you’re facing family violence charges, having the right legal representation is critical. At the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, we provide dedicated support every step of the way.

• Case Evaluation: We thoroughly review your charges and evidence to identify the best strategy for your defense. Every detail matters, and we leave no stone unturned.
• Protecting Your Rights: We ensure your rights are respected throughout the legal process. From unlawful searches to coercion, we are vigilant about your legal protections.
• Negotiating With Prosecutors: Our team strives to secure reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or case dismissal when possible.
• Litigation in Court: If your case goes to trial, we fight aggressively on your behalf, presenting evidence and challenging the prosecution’s claims.

Steps to Take If You’re Accused of Family Violence

If you’ve been accused of family violence, taking the right steps early on can make a significant difference in your case.

Remain Silent and Avoid Self-Incrimination

Refrain from discussing your case with law enforcement or others without consulting your attorney first. Anything you say can be used against you.

Comply With Restraining Orders

Follow any legal orders issued against you, even if you believe they are unfair. Violating them can lead to additional charges.

Gather Evidence and Witnesses

Document the incident as thoroughly as possible. Collect witness statements, photographs, or other evidence supporting your case.

Contact an Experienced Defense Attorney

Having a family violence defense lawyer in Denver, CO, can help you build a strong defense and protect your future.

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Violence Charges

When facing family violence charges, it’s normal to have questions about the legal process and what to expect. Understanding your rights and options can help you feel more prepared as you go through the legal process. Below, we address some of the most common concerns individuals have about protective orders, dropped charges, proving innocence, and the potential impact of a conviction.

Can I fight a protective order issued against me?

Yes, you can challenge a protective order in court. Your attorney can help you present evidence and argue why the order is unnecessary or unjust.

What happens if my partner or family member wants to drop the charges?

Even if your accuser wants to drop the charges, it’s ultimately up to the prosecutor to decide whether the case will proceed.

How can I prove a family violence accusation is false?

You can present evidence such as witness testimony, text messages, or surveillance footage to demonstrate untrue allegations.

Will a family violence conviction affect my ability to own a firearm?

A conviction can impact your right to own or possess firearms under state and federal laws.

Contact Our Denver Family Violence Defense Attorney

If you’re facing family violence charges, don’t face them alone. A skilled attorney can make a significant difference in your case by protecting your rights and guiding you through the legal process.

The best criminal defense attorney in Denver at the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani is ready to help you defend your future. Call us today for a consultation and let us start building your defense.