Baltimore Domestic Violence Arrests

Domestic violence refers to violent offenses committed against individuals that the accused has familial ties to, or lives with. Not only do domestic violence offenses carry a stigma, they can also severely impact a person’s life. Baltimore domestic violence arrests can have serious consequences. If you are charged with a crime of domestic violence or served with a petition for a protective order, it would be in your best interest to contact an experienced domestic violence lawyer as soon as you are able to do so. A seasoned attorney could examine the facts of your case and could use those facts to build a solid case for you.

Arrests for Domestic Violence

Baltimore domestic violence arrests occur when a report is made and law enforcement officers see evidence or receive verbal information that there was a crime. In situations where there is evidence of family violence, law enforcement is required to arrest others. When probable cause comes up, it simply means an arrest was made because it is likely something happened. When the police officer has reason to believe that a crime occurred, then they have probable cause. In the early stage of the investigation, the police officer determines whether the available information indicates more if a crime occurred. The prosecutor can charge someone who is then arrested.

In many situations, it is a judgment call. For example, if the police are called and hear two individuals arguing, and one of the individuals states they were pushed by the other, the police could tell one to leave and cool off if they do not see any visible injuries. If the officer sees a mark, a bruise, bleeding, or any sign of injury, then that will more likely than not lead to an arrest of one of the parties.

After The Arrest

An arrest involving domestic violence is no different than any other arrest. An individual is put in handcuffs, placed in the back of a police car, and transported. They retain the same rights and privileges they would have if they remain silent.

Baltimore domestic violence arrests see the individual transported for processing at the police station or the jail. They are subject to intake, where the officer obtains the person’s work history, school history, family, and other basic information. The person sees a commissioner who decides whether to allow the person to be released, released on bond, or held without bond. At that point, the person is entitled to have an attorney present.

Avoiding Self-Incrimination

Once somebody has been arrested (or even before an arrest), the police are there to gather evidence which could be used against an individual. An individual should only speak to the police after they have been counseled by their attorney, and know what to say. Baltimore domestic violence arrests can be a difficult time, but anything said can be used against an individual. Statements can be taken out of context and later used against the individual. A defense attorney would have to fight the prosecutor to try and keep that statement out of court.

It is important to avoid certain pitfalls such as taking things out of context. In addition, if someone says something, it is up to the police and their interpretation of what was said to come forward. If there is no attorney present, there is no one who can back up what was said and the context in which something was said. It is always important that a person protects their rights and does not risk anything being used against them.

Benefits of Contacting a Baltimore Domestic Violence Attorney

It is important to have a domestic violence lawyer by your side immediately after being arrested. A local attorney may be familiar with local arrest procedure. They could also begin the process of procuring your release.

An experienced attorney is very helpful at every stage of Baltimore domestic violence arrests. The attorney could shield you against impropriety by law enforcement and guide you through the trial process. Seek the services of a legal advocate who is familiar with the type of charge filed against you and could best advise you on what to do and what not to do during your trial. A qualified lawyer could fight for you.