Murfreesboro Domestic Violence Lawyer

Murfreesboro Domestic Violence Attorney

Facing a domestic violence accusation can be life-changing. Not only can a conviction lead to a criminal record and loss of certain freedoms, but a simple accusation can lead to negative social outcomes, damaging your reputation and career. When accused of domestic violence, hiring a Murfreesboro domestic violence lawyer can help secure and protect your future.

Why Choose Us?

The severity of domestic violence charges can extend to virtually every area of your personal and professional life. However, being arrested doesn’t mean you’ve been convicted, and there is still hope for a favorable outcome. Experienced legal representation enables you to protect your freedom as well as your reputation and future.

The Law Office of Cesar Arbelaez delivers aggressive and compassionate legal defense for domestic violence charges across Murfreesboro and Rutherford County through personalized strategies. Our team can analyze the facts of your case while contesting the evidence to secure the most favorable result possible.

Understanding Domestic Violence in Murfreesboro, TN

Domestic violence is broadly defined in Tennessee. It refers to the violent or aggressive behavior typically happening within a home between close or intimate individuals, such as people in a relationship, two individuals who share a child, roommates, and family members. Domestic violence can cover a range of offenses, including:

• Physical abuse, such as hitting, slapping, or shoving
• Emotional abuse, such as constant criticism or name-calling
• Sexual abuse, such as rape or coercing someone to perform unwanted sexual acts
• Psychological abuse, which includes causing fear or intimidation, such as through destroying personal property or threatening harm or injury
• Financial abuse, including denying someone access to money and resources
• Technological abuse, such as using technology to stalk, harass, or control someone, including monitoring and restricting their technology and social media usage

In 2023, a total of 60,479 domestic violence incidents were reported by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. This marked a decrease from the previous two years. Of these, more than half were for simple assaults, totaling 39,413 incidents. Aggravated assault was also prevalent, with 9,914 incidents.

Penalties for Domestic Violence

Domestic assault is usually classified as a misdemeanor unless there are circumstances that increase it to a felony, such as causing severe injury or death. If the offender has prior convictions, it can also result in enhanced penalties. Common penalties include jail time, fines, mandatory counseling or anger management classes, and restitution to the alleged victim.

Additionally, if a person is convicted, they may lose their right to possess firearms and may be subject to a restraining order. A conviction will go on your criminal record, which can make it difficult to secure housing and employment, as many entities perform background checks.

There are some penalties that happen immediately after a person is charged, such as being served with a temporary restraining order. This affects where a person can live, work, and move. If you have children, this can also affect your ability to see them. You may also have to seek emergency shelter if you share a home with the alleged victim and are no longer allowed to return.

Building a Strong Defense

At The Law Office of Cesar Arbelaez, we can develop an individualized defense for your specific situation. Each case is different, and outcomes depend on specific circumstances. Sometimes, accusations are made in retaliation, in the heat of the moment, or due to misunderstandings. Additionally, the law considers self-defense and defense of others to be legitimate defenses against domestic assault charges in numerous situations.

Our team can help build a strong defense by challenging any witness statements or a lack of reliable evidence. We can conduct a full investigation to reveal any inconsistencies or instances where your rights were not upheld.

The Guidance Center supplies anger management counseling and mental health evaluations as part of the Volunteer Behavioral Health Care System. By participating in these programs, individuals can meet court requirements and demonstrate their sincere dedication to self-improvement and rehabilitation.

We collaborate with resources, including the Rutherford County Domestic Violence Court, which functions as a special program addressing domestic violence cases. Our understanding of this local court system enables us to more effectively push for alternative punishments, including supervised probation and counseling or conditional dismissals instead of severe penalties.

Contact The Law Office of Cesar Arbelaez Today

Being charged with domestic violence is a serious offense that can come with criminal and social penalties. If you have been charged, it is imperative that you seek legal assistance right away. The Law Office of Cesar Arbelaez can help. Contact us today to start fighting for your rights.