Harford County Domestic Violence Lawyer
Arguments and fights between intimate partners or spouses may quickly and unintentionally become physical in nature if relationships begin to deteriorate. Despite an accused person’s intentions, domestic violence allegations could have serious consequences.
If you are facing domestic violence charges, you may be recommended to call a Harford County domestic violence lawyer for assistance.
Even if the subject of the offense later wants to drop the charges or reconcile, Advice from an experienced attorney may be warranted since you may still face prosecution.
Domestic Assault in Maryland
While some states may have specific domestic violence-related criminal offenses established by statute, Maryland does not. Crimes that occur in a domestic context are typically charged just as they would be in a non-domestic context. One of the common criminal offenses to arise out of a domestic violence situation is assault.
The definition of assault could range from threats of violence to the infliction of serious physical harm. Whether an assault arises out of a domestic situation or not, the charge and the penalties a person could face in court are the same. As the potential penalties are serious, consulting a domestic violence lawyer in Harford County may be wise.
First Degree Assault
First-degree assault, as defined in Maryland Code, Criminal Law § 3-202, is a felony offense with a maximum potential prison sentence of 25 years. For a first-degree assault to occur, individuals must intentionally cause or attempt to cause serious bodily injury to another.
Second-Degree Assault
As defined in Maryland Code, Criminal Law § 3-203, second-degree assault could occur when individuals make threats or make physical contact with others that reasonably may be seen as offensive. This offense is a misdemeanor, but penalties may include up to ten years in prison and a maximum fine of $2,500.
Reckless Endangerment
Reckless endangerment is another criminal offense that may be charged in a domestic violence situation. Pursuant to Maryland Code, Criminal Law § 3-204, individuals who recklessly take actions that create a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another may be subject to reckless endangerment charges.
This offense is a misdemeanor that might result in a sentence of incarceration of up to five years and a fine of up to $5,000. Due to the potential seriousness of a reckless endangerment charge, individuals may want to speak with a Harford County lawyer for assistance with a domestic violence case.
Violation of Protective Orders
Protective orders are commonly granted in cases involving assault or reckless endangerment in the context of a domestic violence incident. These orders typically prohibit individuals from having any contact with the subjects of the alleged offenses. These orders may contain very specific provisions about places where individuals cannot go, such as the workplace, home, and school of the subjects.
A violation of a protective order could result in either civil contempt charges or criminal charges pursuant to Maryland Code, Family Law § 4-509. Violating a protective order may result in a jail sentence of up to 90 days and a fine of up to $1,000. A second or subsequent violation of a protective order may result in a jail sentence up to one year and a fine of up to $2,500.
Let a Harford County Domestic Violence Lawyer Assist You
The consequences of a domestic assault or related conviction could be very grave. Not only may you face fines and incarceration, but you could lose other important rights which may include the ability to possess a firearm, the right to continue residing in your home, and the right to spend quality time with your children. Getting the advice of a Harford County domestic violence lawyer may be essential to properly safeguard your rights.
The unanticipated repercussions of a conviction on a domestic violence offense may follow you for years to come and some may even be permanent. Building a strong defense to any domestic violence charges that you are facing may be essential to your ability to avoid these negative losses.