Being charged with domestic violence can change your life in an instant, bringing with it the heavy burden of legal consequences and the harsh scrutiny of society. Knowing how to defend yourself effectively is crucial in these trying moments.

Our team at The Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani has put together comprehensive insights on the importance of having a strong defense against domestic violence charges and the critical importance of having a dedicated domestic violence defense attorney in Denver.

Steps to Take to Protect Your Rights

When facing domestic violence charges, we are here to defend your rights. However, the things you do after being charged can impact the outcome of your case. Some steps to remember include:

Step 1: Understand the Charges

The first step in defending yourself against domestic violence charges is to understand the accusations against you. Domestic violence in Colorado encompasses a broad range of behaviors beyond physical harm, including emotional abuse, threats, harassment, and economic control. It’s critical to know exactly what actions you’re being accused of to form an effective defense.

Step 2: Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

Upon arrest, exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Politely decline to discuss the case with law enforcement or prosecutors without a Denver criminal defense lawyer present. This is not an admission of guilt but a safeguard against unintentionally compromising your defense.

Step 3: Contact a Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Denver

Working with a domestic violence defense attorney in Denver when facing charges can make all the difference in reducing them or having them dismissed altogether. Your attorney can leverage their knowledge of Colorado’s laws to offer guidance on the best action, whether negotiating a plea deal or fighting the charges in court.

Step 4: Collect Evidence and Witness Information

Gather any evidence that may support your defense. This might include:

Communications, such as texts, emails, or voicemails, between you and the accuser
Photographs
Medical records

Anything demonstrating the context of the relationship or incident may be valuable. Additionally, compile a list of potential witnesses who can corroborate your version of events or testify to the character of both parties involved.

Step 5: Consider Possible Defense Strategies

A Denver criminal defense lawyer will help you explore all possible defense strategies. Common defenses against domestic violence charges include:

Self-Defense: Argue that any actions taken were in self-defense or in defense of others, especially if evidence suggests you felt threatened.
False Accusations: Unfortunately, false accusations do occur. This defense might be appropriate if there’s reason to believe the accuser has fabricated the story, perhaps due to emotional reasons, jealousy, or as a tactic in divorce or custody proceedings.
De Minimis Infraction: In cases where the act was minor and did not cause harm, your attorney might argue that the infraction is too trivial to warrant prosecution.
Lack of Proof: The prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there’s insufficient evidence against you, highlighting the lack of proof can be a powerful defense.

Step 6: Avoid Contact with the Accuser

Abide by any protective or restraining orders issued against you to avoid further complications. Violating such orders can lead to additional charges and weaken your defense. Communication should be handled through your attorney to ensure compliance with legal restrictions.

Step 7: Prepare for Court

Preparing for court involves more than just gathering evidence and witnesses. Emotional readiness is also crucial. Your attorney can help prepare you for what to expect during the trial, including potential questioning and the presentation of evidence. Being well-prepared can help reduce anxiety and enhance your composure in court.

Step 8: Consider Counseling or Anger Management

Even if you’re innocent of the charges, voluntarily participating in counseling or anger management programs can positively impact your case. It demonstrates to the court your commitment to resolving any underlying issues and can sometimes influence the outcome in your favor.

Step 9: Develop a Strategy for Rehabilitation and Restitution

If the evidence against you is strong, your attorney might advise a strategy that includes rehabilitation efforts or restitution to the victim as part of a plea agreement. Though not ideal, such an approach can reduce charges or penalties.

Contact Our Denver Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

Dealing with domestic violence charges is no small task. It demands a deep understanding of the law, a well-thought-out defense strategy, and a lot of emotional strength. However, the most crucial element in your defense is having the support and guidance of an experienced domestic violence defense attorney in Denver.

Here at the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, we are dedicated to offering our clients the strong defense they need. We use extensive knowledge and experience to counter the prosecution’s claims at every opportunity. If you are facing domestic violence charges, contact our Denver criminal defense lawyer to schedule a consultation and get started on protecting your rights and your future.

How to Defend Yourself Against Domestic Violence Charges