Passaic County Domestic Violence Lawyers Defending Your Future
Being accused of domestic violence can change everything. It could deeply impact your personal life, reputation, career and entire future. What you do next matters a great deal. You need guidance and advocacy you can depend on. Our trusted Passaic County domestic violence lawyers are ready to help with your defense.
At Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law, we provide dedicated criminal defense representation grounded in honesty and experience. Put us at your side when you are facing domestic violence allegations in Clifton, Paterson, Passaic, Wayne or other Passaic County communities. We serve clients from our New Jersey offices in Hackensack and North Haledon and our New York office in the Bronx.
With two team members who were prosecutors, we understand exactly what you are up against and what is needed to protect your future in your domestic violence case. Get in touch today for your free consultation.
What Qualifies As Domestic Violence In Passaic County?
In New Jersey, the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act of 1991 sets the legal definition of domestic violence in the state. Under this law, two conditions must be met:
- A qualifying act: The law specifies 19 types of wrongful acts, such as assault, sexual assault, kidnapping, robbery and stalking.
- Committed against a protected person: A protected person is someone who is married to, is separated/divorced from, is dating, lives with, has lived with, has a child with or is expecting a child with the perpetrator. They also, typically, must be at least 18 years old.
Our Passaic County domestic violence attorneys are here to address any questions you have regarding whether the allegations you face fall under this definition.
Why Does It Matter if A Criminal Act Is Considered Domestic Violence?
While most acts of domestic violence (such as assault and sexual abuse) are crimes all on their own, having the added domestic violence designation can lead to harsher penalties, charge upgrades and consequences beyond just the criminal case. Understanding these potential implications is crucial when facing domestic abuse accusations in Passaic County.
Do You Need A Passaic County Domestic Violence Defense Attorney?
Given the severity of domestic violence charges, steering clear of mistakes when it comes to your defense is essential. Going it alone can make you very vulnerable to such errors. Having the help of an experienced domestic violence attorney can make a huge difference and be key in protecting your rights. With our team’s aggressive defense approach, extensive experience and steadfast commitment to being there for you, we are the dependable legal allies you need.
Is Domestic Violence A Misdemeanor Or Felony In Passaic County?
It depends on the specific charge. For example, under New Jersey law, simple assault involving domestic violence is generally a misdemeanor (disorderly person offense), while aggravated assault is a felony (indictable offense). The charge level has major ramifications on the severity of the penalties you could face. We can help you understand the specific charges against you and explore opportunities to seek to have them reduced or dismissed.
Understanding The Penalties For Passaic County Domestic Violence Offenses
Domestic violence allegations can expose you to significant criminal penalties, including:
- Imprisonment: Ranging from up to 6 months for a misdemeanor to up to 20 years for severe felonies
- Fines: Up to $1,000 for a misdemeanor and potentially up to $200,000 for a felony, depending on the charge level
Our team can explain what could be on the table in your case and make efforts to reduce the chances of you receiving such penalties.
Beyond The Charges
In addition to criminal charges, Passaic County domestic violence cases often involve civil matters, such as permanent and temporary restraining orders, and family law issues, like child custody. Having criminal law attorneys who understand the interplay between these civil matters and your criminal case is critical to ensuring your defense strategies truly protect your best interests.
Discover Your Defense Options
Learn how our team can help you fight Passaic County domestic violence charges. Call 201-212-4532 or reach out to us online for a free consultation.