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.
Facing domestic violence charges in New Jersey? Contact us online or call (973) 832-0841 to schedule a meeting with our domestic violence attorney in Morristown!
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
Domestic violence can include many types of charges, including:
- Verbal Abuse - Engaging in threatening or intimidating language intended to cause emotional harm.
- Emotional Abuse - Actions aimed at undermining an individual's self-worth or emotional well-being.
- Threats of Harm/Violence - Making verbal or written statements that infer potential physical harm.
- Harassment - Repeated unwanted contact or ill-intentioned communication.
- Stalking - Following, monitoring, or surveilling an individual persistently.
- Kidnapping - Unlawfully taking and carrying away an individual by force or fraud.
- Child Abuse - Physical or emotional maltreatment of a child.
- Child Endangerment - Putting a child at risk through reckless or intentional actions.
- Sexual Abuse - Illegal sexual contact forced upon a person without consent.
Expanding awareness of these charges is vital, as each category carries specific legal implications and potential penalties. Our approach emphasizes a detailed examination of circumstances to tailor our defense strategies accordingly.
What are the Penalties for Domestic Violence in New Jersey?
Depending on the nature of the alleged incident(s), the consequences of a domestic violence conviction may include:
- Time in jail or prison
- Large fines
- Restitution
- Permanent criminal record
One of the most serious outcomes of a domestic violence conviction may be a permanent restraining order, which keeps you out of your home and away from your children. As such, it is imperative that you hire a criminal defense firm that cares about you and the outcome of your case. Furthermore, understanding the long-term impacts, such as the potential loss of employment or the ability to obtain certain licenses or positions, is essential when facing such charges. We discuss these broader consequences with our clients to develop a robust defense plan tailored to their needs.
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.
Put Our Strategy to Work for You
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We Strategize Based Off Each Clients’ Unique Situation
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Extensive Knowledge That Equals Results
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Complex & Aggressive Criminal Representation
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Your Initial Consultation Is Free
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Our Firm Believes in Transparent Communication
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We Provide Personalized Attention to Each Case
Devoted to Our Clients
We Understand What it Takes to Win a Case
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“He was incredibly responsive and communicative, always getting back to me in a timely manner and addressing all my concerns.”Jonathan
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“Above all, he is a nice, compassionate man. Could not recommend him more highly.”Steve
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“If you need a lawyer who is competent and gives results while being understanding and easy to talk too, give Joe a call. It will not be a regret.”Matthew
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“From the very first call—even late at night—he was available to talk and walk me through my options, which I truly appreciated.”GB
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“From start to finish, Joseph demonstrated exceptional knowledge and a thorough understanding of my case.”Fredericko