Domestic Violence
Domestic violence crimes involve any violence or threats of violence against a romantic partner or other family or household member. Facing domestic violence charges can be a scary experience, as this crime can carry lengthy jail sentences and other serious penalties.
If you are arrested on domestic violence charges in Indiana, you need a lawyer on your side who can defend your best interests. In these situations, trust the Indianapolis domestic violence defense attorney at Shircliff Law LLC to represent your case. I will work tirelessly to defend you against these charges and protect your rights. Call me at 317-279-4894 to schedule your consultation.
Why You Need an Lawyer from Shircliff Law LLC
At Shircliff Law LLC, we know how serious a criminal conviction can be. For over 30 years, I have fought for the rights of the criminally accused in Indiana and is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for my clients.
I will leverage our resources and knowledge to fight for a positive result in your case, including reduced sentences, dismissals and acquittals and the protection of your professional license or certification. I know what it takes to defend your rights and ensure that you are treated fairly in Indiana courts.
The Definition of Domestic Violence Under Indiana Law
According to several sections of Indiana law, domestic violence refers to any incidents that occur between members of the same family or household. This offense involves a accused who uses or threatens to use physical force or a deadly weapon against a family or household member.
Under these statutes, a family or household member may include any of the following parties:
- Someone who is related to the accused by blood, adoption, or marriage
- The current or former spouse or romantic or sexual partner of the accused
- Someone who shares a child with the accused
- A current or former custodian, foster parent, guardian, or ward
Types of Domestic Violence Crimes In Indianapolis
In Indiana, domestic violence can encompass a wide range of crimes, such as sexual assault, harassment, and kidnapping. Laws involving domestic violence are embedded across different statutes, each of which concern a different criminal offense.
Domestic battery is the most common type of domestic violence crime. This offense occurs when an offender touches a family or household member that is rude, angry, or insolent, or places bodily fluids or waste on the victim.
There are two types of domestic battery in Indiana: misdemeanor domestic battery and felony domestic battery. This crime becomes a felony when any of the following criteria apply:
- The accused uses a deadly weapon.
- The victim has a protection order against the accused.
- The offender intentionally commits the crime in the presence of a child.
- The accused has prior convictions for domestic battery or strangulation.
- The battery results in moderate or serious bodily injury.
- The accused attacks a vulnerable victim, such as a child, pregnant woman, or disabled person
Penalties for Domestic Violence in Indiana
Depending on the type and severity of the crime, domestic violence crimes are either classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. There are six levels of felony crimes in Indiana, each of which carry a different set of consequences. The most serious domestic violence offenses may result in Level 2 penalties.
Below are a few examples of penalties for domestic violence in Indiana:
- Class A Misdemeanor: These offenses are punishable by up to one year in prison and up to $5,000 in fines. Most domestic battery cases fall under this category, as do violations of protective orders.
- Level 6 Felony: A level 6 felony includes crimes such as killing an animal intending to terrorize or harass a household member. These crimes carry a punishment of six months to three years in prison.
- Level 5 Felony: These crimes have a prison sentence of one to six years and a fine of up to $10,000. Offenses include stalking in violation of a protective or restraining order.
- Level 4 Felony: Including crimes such as domestic battery resulting in serious bodily injury, you may face two to 12 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Level 3 Felony: A level 3 felony includes domestic battery against a victim under 14 years old that results in injury. You could face three to 16 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Level 2 Felony: As the most severe domestic violence crimes, you may face ten to 30 years in prison and $10,000 in fines if convicted. Level 2 felonies include domestic battery resulting in death and confining someone else without consent through threat, force or fraud.
Do You Need an Attorney for a Domestic Violence Charge?
A domestic violence conviction can have a significant impact on your life. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your charges, you could face threats to your freedom, financial health, reputation, and relationships. You should always take a domestic violence charge seriously, even if the case is weak.
In these situations, you need an Indianapolis domestic violence defense attorney on your side. A lawyer knows the ramifications of a domestic violence conviction and can help you understand the penalties that you are facing. I will work to negotiate a reasonable outcome that minimizes damage to you, your family, and all parties who are involved in your case.
At Shircliff Law LLC, I will negotiate on your behalf, gather evidence to build your defense, and argue for your side of the story in the courtroom. By hiring a lawyer to protect your interests, you are better equipped to avoid the severe penalties that can come with a domestic violence conviction.
Contact a Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Today
If you are arrested for domestic violence in Indiana, don’t navigate your case alone. Trust Shircliff Law LLC to protect your rights and guide you through the criminal justice process.
I will provide you with the legal representation that you need and deserve. Contact me online today to schedule your case consultation or reach out by calling 317-279-4894.