Being arrested for domestic assault is a traumatic experience that has the potential to impact one's life in significant ways. It is imperative to approach the circumstance with extreme caution, complete comprehension, and a well-defined game plan. This blog post will walk you through the first measures you need to do if you or someone you know has been arrested for domestic abuse. We will stress the significance of retaining legal representation, staying safe, and making decisions that are in line with your responsibilities.
Comply with the Requests of Law Enforcement:
When being arrested, it is imperative to keep one's composure and work cooperatively with the officers who have taken one into custody. If a person resists arrest or becomes combative with law enforcement, this can result in extra charges and might make the situation more worse.
Be aware of the legal protections afforded to you:
You have the right to remain silent as well as the right to speak with an attorney if you choose to do so. Take advantage of these rights. Inform the law enforcement officers in a courteous manner that you intend to maintain your silence and would prefer to confer with an attorney before responding to any queries. Make sure not to say anything that could be turned around and used as evidence against you later.
Consult with a legal representative:
Seek the advice and counsel of a lawyer as soon as you can. An experienced domestic abuse attorney is in the best position to offer direction, safeguard your legal rights, and assist you in navigating the legal procedure. If you are unable to pay for legal representation, you might be eligible for a public defender.
Put an Emphasis on Safety:
If you are the victim in this scenario, you need to take steps to protect yourself. Do not delay in calling 911 if you or your children are in immediate danger or if you are afraid for your own safety or the safety of others. The local law enforcement can provide assistance in protecting you and may be able to direct you to organizations that can aid you in finding a safe place to stay or obtaining a protective order.
Keep meticulous records on everything:
It is imperative that you keep a record of the event, regardless of whether you were the alleged offender or the victim. This includes documenting the incident in full on paper and photographing any injuries or property damage that may have occurred. This information may prove to be quite helpful in court.
Obey all orders issued by the Court:
If the court releases you on bail or bond, you are required to closely adhere to any conditions issued by the court, such as restraining orders or no-contact orders. Any violation of these orders may result in additional legal repercussions.
Make all of your required court appearances
Make sure you don't miss any of your scheduled court appearances, including your arraignment and any hearings that follow. Should you fail to appear in court as required, a warrant may be issued for your arrest.
Seek Professional Help (Counseling or Treatment):
Consider going to counseling or therapy to address any underlying issues and prevent repeat events, regardless of whether you were the person who was accused or the person who was victimized. By taking this preventative measure, you may show that you are committed to your own personal development and rehabilitation.
Maintain Open Lines of Communication with Your Attorney:
Always communicate with your attorney in a straightforward and truthful manner. They are able to advise you on how to go through the legal procedure, investigate your options for a defense, and negotiate with the prosecutor on your behalf.
Keep in Mind the Social and Professional Consequences of Your Actions:
An arrest for domestic violence can have significant repercussions that extend well beyond the realm of the judicial system. It has the potential to impact your reputation as well as your employment and relationships. Think about how you and your attorney can come up with the most effective solutions to these problems.
Conclusion
Being arrested for domestic assault is a serious matter that needs one to approach the situation with caution and strategy. Following an arrest of this nature, it is imperative to seek the advice of legal representation, place one's own safety as the top priority, and comply with any instructions issued by the court. It is important to keep in mind that seeking expert counsel and making decisions that are in line with your values can assist you in navigating this difficult circumstance and, ultimately, in moving on with your life. This is true regardless of whether you are the accused or the victim.
About Frank Walker Law
Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.
Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.
If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.