Domestic violence can be a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the circumstances. In Massachusetts, domestic violence cases are often charged as assault and battery on a family or household member.
The defendant’s criminal history and background will need to be examined in order to detect areas that may work in his or her favor. A spotless criminal record will raise the defendant’s chances of a lighter sentence. If the defendant has multiple previous charges of domestic violence, he or she may be charged with a felony. The nature of the charges, the time served (if any), and the overall sentence will also affect the possible outcome.
If you have a prior conviction for domestic violence, any later domestic violence offense is a felony. Your first offense can carry a penalty of up to two-and-a-half years in the house of corrections, but any later offense can carry state prison time.
Sometimes, domestic violence charges can result in other charges, which can be felonies. These charges include assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and strangulation/suffocation.
Your employment or immigration status may be affected as well. A domestic violence charge could also mean loss of your gun rights. A skilled attorney with a thorough understanding of the implications and legal precedent of any aspect of the defendant’s past and present will give him or her the opportunity to end the case in the best possible position.
If you are charged with domestic violence in Massachusetts, you need an experienced domestic violence attorney. I have successfully represented dozens of people charged with domestic violence. Call or text me today at (617) 295-7500. Let’s get started on your defense!