Serving Clients Throughout Northern New Jersey And NYC
At Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law, our law practice is small enough that we know our clients well. Our New Jersey domestic violence lawyers are invested directly in the outcomes of our clients’ cases. In no situation is this more true than domestic violence matters.
We understand the profound effect that domestic violence has on the victims and on the people accused. That is why our domestic violence lawyers fight hard to help you achieve the results that are best for you in your unique situations. We represent people in matters related to orders of protection and temporary or permanent restraining orders throughout Bergen County, Passaic County and northern New Jersey.
The experienced NJ domestic violence attorneys at Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law can help. Let us look at your case and determine the best way to defend you. With offices in Hackensack, Wayne and the Bronx, our lawyers represent people accused of domestic violence throughout NY and NJ, including Passaic, Hudson, and Bergen County.
If you are facing domestic violence charges, our certified trial attorneys have helped many satisfied clients, and we will help you achieve the best possible results in your domestic violence matter. Call anytime, day or night, for a FREE legal consultation. We serve all of New Jersey and New York City, including Bergen County, Passaic County, Essex County, & Hudson County.
One Issue. Two Cases.
Domestic violence cases can be complex because there are often two cases happening at the same time — the criminal case brought by the state and the civil case, where an alleged victim asks the court to issue a restraining order. The criminal case is resolved in municipal court or Superior Court and involves a prosecutor.
The restraining order is handled in family court and involves both parties before a judge. If successful, a restraining order bars the accused from having contact with the accuser and his or her children, sometimes permanently, among other consequences.
If criminal charges are filed, that means you face allegations on two fronts. In addition to a restraining order, you could face fines and time in jail, as well as the establishment of a criminal record.
False Accusations Of Spousal Abuse
Allegations of spousal abuse can be incredibly serious. Not only can they result in you not being able to see your child, but the mere mention of domestic violence can do irreparable damage to your reputation in the community and at work.
At Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law, we get to know our clients well and we understand that a mere accusation does not mean that the client is guilty. There are many cases in which the accused is the real victim. Our domestic violence lawyers work tirelessly to make sure our clients’ rights are preserved every step of the way.
Whether you are facing criminal charges, civil proceedings or both, it’s important to act quickly to defend yourself. Photographs, emails, text messages and witness testimony can all be a part of disproving the abuse ever took place.
Domestic Violence FAQs
At Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law, our domestic violence defense lawyers understand the challenges that our clients face. We have dedicated ourselves to providing candid answers and effective defense no matter the scope of the charges our clients face. While we know that every case is unique, there are certain FAQs that readers might find helpful.
What Should I Do If I’m Arrested For Domestic Violence?
If you are arrested for domestic violence, you should be polite and respectful to the police, but remind them that you don’t have to answer any questions without your attorney present. Having said that, call an experienced domestic violence lawyer right away. Once you have been arrested for a domestic violence charge it is important for your attorney to obtain photographs, police reports and surveillance videos that will help in the defense of your case. Having skilled legal representation on your side can dramatically impact the legal process.
What Are The Criminal Charges For Domestic Violence?
- Assault (N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1): This charge involves intentionally causing or attempting to cause bodily harm to another person. Even without visible injuries, the infliction of pain or the threat of harm can result in an assault charge.
- Harassment (N.J.S.A. 2C:33-4): Defined as any conduct intended to annoy or alarm, harassment can occur through various communications, such as emails, phone calls, or in-person interactions. Physical actions, including unwanted touching, also fall under this category.
- Stalking (N.J.S.A. 2C:12-10): This charge involves repeated and unwanted attention or contact that causes the victim to fear for their safety. Such behavior can include following, monitoring, or making threats.
- Terroristic Threats (N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3): Making threats to commit violence with the intent to terrorize another person can lead to this serious charge. This includes threats that instill a genuine fear for safety in the victim.
- Sexual Assault (N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2): Any non-consensual sexual act or contact, achieved through force, coercion, or intimidation, constitutes sexual assault and carries severe legal consequences.
- Criminal Restraint (N.J.S.A. 2C:13-2): This involves unlawfully restricting another person’s freedom by confining them in a manner that exposes them to a risk of serious bodily injury.
- False Imprisonment (N.J.S.A. 2C:13-3): Keeping someone confined against their will without legal authority, even without risk of serious injury, can result in a false imprisonment charge.
- Criminal Mischief (N.J.S.A. 2C:17-3): This charge involves intentionally damaging another person’s property, which can include acts like breaking personal belongings or vandalizing shared property.
- Cyber-harassment (N.J.S.A. 2C:33-4.1): Engaging in online behavior intended to harm or threaten another person, including posting harmful or indecent content, can lead to a charge of cyber-harassment.
Facing these charges requires immediate and skilled legal representation. Our attorneys are here to protect your rights and provide a robust defense.
What Are The Penalties For Domestic Violence In New Jersey?
- Jail Time: Sentencing for domestic violence offenses can result in substantial jail time, with penalties increasing for repeat offenses. For example, a second or subsequent fourth-degree crime may result in 18 months of imprisonment, while a first-degree crime could lead to a 20-year sentence. The severity of the charge—ranging from fourth to first degree—plays a crucial role in determining the length of incarceration.
- Fines: Convictions can also include significant financial penalties, which may vary based on the degree of the offense and specific circumstances surrounding the case.
- Restraining Orders: Victims of domestic violence can seek restraining orders to legally prevent the accused from making contact. Violating these orders can lead to additional criminal charges and penalties.
- Deportation for Non-Citizens: Non-U.S. citizens convicted of domestic violence offenses may face immigration consequences, including deportation, which can permanently alter their ability to live and work in the United States.
- Anger Management Programs: Courts may mandate participation in anger management or other rehabilitation programs as part of the sentencing to address underlying issues and prevent future incidents.
Understanding the potential penalties and navigating the legal system can be overwhelming. Our experienced attorneys are here to provide the defense you need, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.
Can A Domestic Violence Charge Be Expunged?
Expungement is the legal process by which an arrest, and all proceedings related to the arrest, are erased in the eyes of the law. While an arrest and conviction for a charge of domestic violence can be expunged, there is a strict process that must be followed. Discuss your case and your options with a skilled NJ domestic violence lawyer as soon as possible.
Visit Our Office To Learn More
Do you have additional domestic violence questions? Our lawyers can answer them during a free initial consultation. Visit our office to learn more. Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law combines the work of two attorneys, so we can serve clients looking for either a male or a female domestic violence lawyer.
Contact us by calling 201-212-4532 or by completing our online contact form to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your defense. With convenient locations in Hackensack, Wayne and the Bronx, we can better serve your needs no matter where the alleged incident occurred. Se habla español.