Morristown Domestic Violence Lawyer

Experienced Defense Against Domestic Violence Charges in Morris County

Have you been charged with domestic violence in Morristown? Law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, and juries take these charges very seriously. A conviction could have devastating consequences. However, domestic violence charges can often be filed due to misunderstandings or mistaken identity, among other situations. At The Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura, our domestic violence lawyers can help you understand the charges against you and the legal options you may have available. Additionally, we support our clients every step of the way, from the initial consultation to negotiations or trials, ensuring that no question goes unanswered.

 

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is a term used to describe physical, psychological, and emotional abuse that occurs between family or household members. In New Jersey, domestic violence can include any behavior intended to intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, or otherwise harm the victim. Domestic violence can also include financial abuse, such as controlling access to finances, damaging the victim's credit score, or withholding money. Importantly, these behaviors can have long-lasting effects on the victims, affecting their personal and professional lives. Understanding these dynamics is crucial to providing a defense that addresses the complexities of each unique case.

Types of Domestic Violence Charges

What are the Penalties for Domestic Violence in New Jersey?

Is Domestic Violence a Felony in NJ?

Domestic violence can be a felony in New Jersey, depending on a perpetrator's prior offenses, especially if they include domestic violence. Domestic violence can also be referred to as a "disorderly person's charge." For simple assault, they are usually charged with misdemeanor domestic violence. If it is the second time a perpetrator was charged with a domestic violence charge, it can be upgraded to a felony. A simple assault can also be elevated to an aggravated assault charge if it resulted in serious injury or if the assault was committed with a deadly weapon. Felonies are graded as first, second, third, or fourth-degree crimes based on severity. Navigating these nuances requires a defense team knowledgeable about mitigating risk and the complexities of state law. Understanding whether your charges could elevate to a more severe classification is fundamental in strategizing your defense.

Contact Our Morristown Domestic Violence Attorney Today

If you have been arrested or are facing domestic violence charges, turn to The Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura for help fighting your charges. With nearly ten years of working knowledge in the legal field, we have the resources and understanding to help protect your rights and safeguard your future. We do not give up on our clients. Our domestic violence lawyer in Morristown is here to give you a chance to tell your story. We believe in providing a strong voice for those accused and work diligently to ensure every aspect of the situation is explored. By choosing us, you're choosing a dedicated partner committed to advocating for your rights throughout the entire legal process.

Contact the Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura today to schedule a FREE consultation with our domestic violence lawyer in Morristown! 

Understanding Local Domestic Violence Legislation in Morristown

The state has been proactive in enacting comprehensive domestic violence laws in New Jersey to provide protection and support for victims. The Prevention of Domestic Violence Act (PDVA) is central to this framework and delineates the legal procedures and remedies available to victims. Under the PDVA, offenses such as assault, harassment, and stalking are explicitly covered. The Act also provides protections like restraining orders and access to shelters or support services. For those facing charges, understanding the local nuances of this legislation can be crucial. The penalties under these laws can be severe, and our domestic violence attorney in Morristown is committed to explaining these intricacies as part of our comprehensive defense strategy.

We advocate not only in court but also help clients understand their legal rights and responsibilities at every stage. This understanding extends to knowing potential defense strategies that might involve challenging the evidence or circumstances of the alleged incident. As a Morristown-based firm, we are familiar with the local courts and the implementation of the PDVA, ensuring that our representation is as informed and prepared as possible.

Why Choose a Morristown Domestic Violence Attorney

When it comes to legal representation, choosing a local attorney can make all the difference. Morristown offers a legal landscape that is influenced by both statewide mandates and local judicial preferences. At Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura, we have nurtured a deep understanding of the local court system, which can be advantageous in navigating domestic violence cases. Our proximity to the courts and regular interaction with local judges and prosecutors have given us valuable insights that can be applied to foster more effective defense strategies.

Additionally, Joseph S. Scura’s recognition as a 'Rising Star' by Super Lawyers® Magazine underscores our firm’s commitment to high-quality, client-focused service. Our clients benefit from our local knowledge, making the legal process more comprehensible and less daunting. In a field where the stakes are incredibly high, the personalized and robust legal counsel we provide is designed to deliver the best possible outcome for our clients. Choosing our firm means choosing a domestic violence lawyer in Morristown with relentless advocacy empowered by deep community ties and respected industry accolades.

Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence Cases

What Should I Do If I Am Charged with Domestic Violence in Morristown?

Being charged with domestic violence is a serious matter with potentially life-altering consequences. If you find yourself facing such charges, your first step should be to contact a knowledgeable domestic violence attorney in Morristown immediately. Legal counsel can guide you through your rights and the subsequent legal procedures, helping you to avoid actions that may inadvertently harm your case. At Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura, we recommend refraining from contact with the alleged victim, preserving any evidence related to the incident, and maintaining documentation of all interactions concerning the charge.

How Can a Domestic Violence Conviction Affect My Future?

A conviction can significantly influence various facets of your life. Beyond potential jail time and fines, a conviction may lead to a permanent criminal record, affecting employment prospects, housing applications, and more. Such a record could also influence child custody arrangements or result in a restraining order. At Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura, our domestic violence lawyer in Morristown provides comprehensive insights into potential outcomes, ensuring our clients are prepared and informed about the broader implications of their charges. Understanding these repercussions is pivotal in strategizing an effective defense.

What Kind of Evidence Is Used in Domestic Violence Cases?

In domestic violence cases, evidence can include physical evidence such as photos of injuries or property damage, medical records, witness testimonies, and police reports. Text messages, voicemails, or other recorded communications can also be significant. Our team at Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura meticulously investigates and examines evidence to ensure it is challenged, and when appropriate, suppressed. We focus on assembling a comprehensive defense that considers all evidence facets, striving for the best possible outcomes for our clients.

Can Charges Be Dropped in Domestic Violence Cases?

Charges can sometimes be dropped before an official complaint is filed, but this typically requires cooperation from the prosecutor and the alleged victim. It's important to note that once charges are filed, the decision to proceed lies primarily with the prosecutor, not the victim. At Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura, we work diligently to negotiate with prosecutors and present evidence that demonstrates a less severe interpretation of the events. Our comprehensive approach seeks to minimize charges where possible, allowing our clients to move forward more positively.

What Are Some Defenses Used in Domestic Violence Cases?

There are several defenses that might be applicable in domestic violence cases. These can include self-defense, false allegations, lack of evidence, or misunderstandings about the incident. Each case is unique, and our team at Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura delves deeply into the circumstances surrounding each charge to identify which defenses may be most effective. We aim to ensure that our clients' voices are heard and their rights protected throughout the legal process.

Contact us online or call (973) 832-0841 to schedule a consultation with our domestic violence attorney in Morristown!