Domestic Violence Defense in Mercer County

If you have been accused of domestic violence, the Logue Law Group is prepared to stand by your side and defend your rights. Facing charges of this nature is incredibly stressful and often generates intense anger and anxiety among family members and friends. We understand the immense pressure you are under. Our goal is to alleviate that burden by providing you with robust representation in court, helping you navigate this difficult time.

Understanding Crimes of Domestic Violence

When law enforcement officers respond to domestic violence calls, standard procedure almost always involves arresting at least one individual. This often happens regardless of whether there is substantial evidence, or even if the alleged victim does not wish to press charges. Once an accused individual is arrested, they are thrust into a world of court hearings and legal stressors.

In the current legal climate, those accused of these crimes face much harsher consequences than in previous years. While the intent is to ensure victim safety, it frequently results in life-altering repercussions for the accused. In these high-stakes moments, a qualified Mercer criminal lawyer can be the difference between a secure future and a permanent record. “Domestic violence” covers a wide array of behaviors between people who cohabitate or share a familial bond, ranging from verbal and physical attacks to sexual assault. It is important to note that arrests can occur from a single isolated incident or a history of behavior.

Domestic Violence Defined

Under Pennsylvania law, there are three specific criteria that can lead to an arrest and charge for domestic violence. You may be charged if you:

• Recklessly cause physical harm to a family or household member;
• Knowingly cause or attempt to cause physical harm to a family or household member; or
• Use the threat of force to make a family member believe they are in imminent danger of physical harm.

Crucially, you must remember that physical contact is not always required for an arrest. Even if you never touched the alleged victim, threats can be sufficient grounds for charges. While our group is often recognized when clients need a Mercer DUI lawyer, our expertise extends deeply into family violence statutes and criminal defense.

Common Types of Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence is an umbrella term that encompasses several specific charges. Some of the most frequently seen types include:

• Child abuse or neglect
• Domestic assault and battery
• Rape or sexual battery
• Menacing by stalking
• Violation of a protection order

To effectively fight any of these charges, securing a skilled Mercer criminal lawyer is essential to analyze the specifics of your case.

Defenses Against Domestic Violence Allegations

If you have been charged, simply telling your side of the story is rarely enough to get charges dropped. In many cases, the account given by the alleged perpetrator conflicts directly with that of the alleged victim. You need a strategic defense.

The Logue Law Group possesses a toolbox of potential defenses to convince the court to reduce or dismiss charges. Whether you initially sought us out as a Mercer DUI lawyer or for violent crime defense, we apply the same rigorous standards of evidence to every case. Common defenses include:

• False allegations: It is unfortunately common for spouses or partners to make false accusations during a breakup to gain leverage in civil divorce or custody proceedings.
• Self-defense: Individuals have the right to protect themselves. Courts may dismiss cases where the accused was reacting to the alleged victim’s aggression.
• Lack of evidence: If there is no proof—such as injuries or witness testimony—a prosecutor may struggle to secure a conviction.
• Accidental injury: This defense applies when the injury was caused by the victim’s own negligence or causes unrelated to the accused.
• Defense of others: This argues that the accused intervened to protect another family member from harm.

Penalties for Domestic Violence in Pennsylvania

Judges consider several factors during sentencing, including the severity of injuries, the relationship to the victim, and the offender’s criminal history. Convictions can range from minor misdemeanors to first-degree felonies.

All levels of conviction involve fines, starting at $150 and escalating up to $20,000. Furthermore, all convictions except minor misdemeanors carry potential jail time, ranging from a minimum of 30 days up to 11 years in prison. To avoid these harsh penalties, retaining a dedicated Mercer criminal lawyer is your best course of action.The Logue Law Group is the defense team you want in your corner. Call us at 412.389.0805. We are here to help if you need a Mercer DUI lawyer or defense against domestic violence charges.