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What you think is just an argument can turn into something much more. Who knows what happened? A neighbor may hear raised voices and call the police. The police arrive and decide an argument ensued and so someone must be arrested for domestic violence. Domestic violence in Tennessee carries serious consequences when not addressed immediately. These consequences can be both civil and criminal. If you have been charged in West Tennessee with a domestic violence or related offense, it's imperative to contact a domestic violence defense attorney.

You have rights, and at Kaufman Monroe Law, we are here to uphold your rights and defend any allegations made against you. Call us at 901 202 4747 to schedule a Free consultation by appointment today.

Domestic Violence in Tennessee

Domestic violence describes a range of harm committed in the context of a domestic relationship, usually between spouses, intimate partners, or relatives. It can also include roommates or other members of the household. Examples of physical acts that can arise from domestic violence include punching, hitting, slapping, or shoving. However, it could extend to other patterns of abusive behavior, like threats of violence, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and financial abuse. 

Consequences of Alleged Domestic Violence in Tennessee

When a person is charged with a domestic violence offense, the court has the power to order an Order of Protection. Protection orders can be made even when the defendant isn't present in court and before their criminal law matter has been finalized and, in many cases, before the criminal process has really even begun. In essence, when it comes to domestic violence, you can suffer certain consequences before a judge or jury has found you guilty of anything beyond a reasonable doubt.

When a protection order is issued, it can result in two significant consequences, though there may be other penalties or restrictions imposed:

1. It can restrict a defendant's contact with the victim and their children; and
2. It can require the defendant to leave the family home.
3. A person subject to a Order of Protection or convicted of a domestic violence offense is also prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm under federal law. 

Criminal convictions of any nature, but especially domestic violence offenses, can also impact a defendant's ability to find work, or credit rating or housing. Potential employers or landlords who run a background check may refuse an applicant with a domestic violence conviction. 

Penalties of Domestic Violence or a Related Criminal Conviction in Tennessee

The sentencing options for domestic violence offenses include many. Much of it depends on the severity of the allegations and any prior protective orders. Generally, penalties can include but are not limited to:

• Fines
• Probation 
• Domestic violence treatment or counseling programs 
• Imprisonment

When sentencing an offender for a domestic violence offense, the court will take into account aggravating circumstances, like:

• the level of injury sustained by the victim
• whether a weapon was used or a child witnessed the crime
• whether the crime violates an existing protection order
• the personal characteristics of the victim, such as older age or pregnancy

The penalties for domestic violence offenses can quickly become harsher with subsequent convictions in Tennessee. 

Can Domestic Violence Charges Be Dropped in West Tennessee?

Domestic violence charges can be dropped, but it is critical to know that they will not be dropped only because the alleged victim of the violence no longer wants charges brought against the alleged suspect. Charges are brought by the state, not by the affected person.

The same is true about the Order of Protection. Even if the victim no longer wants the protection order, the order remains in effect. Any person who has a restraining order against them must abide by the order or risk further criminal charges and subsequent consequences. Violating a protective order is a serious offense.

Defenses to Domestic Violence Allegations in Tennessee

A person can defend against a domestic violence charge in Tennessee. However, the specific defenses available to a defendant will depend on the circumstances of their case. 

Some common defenses include:

• Self-defense or defense of others, where reasonable force was used to prevent an attack
• Lack of evidence, if the prosecution fails to present enough evidence to prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt
• False allegations, where the victim has lied about what happened
• Accident, where the defendant unintentionally caused the injury

A conviction for a domestic violence offense can have a long-lasting impact on many aspects of a defendant's personal life, including their personal relationships, parenting, and employment. It is always in your best interests to, at a minimum, consult with a domestic violence defense lawyer about any allegations.

Enforcement of Domestic Violence Protective Order

Contact a Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in West Tennessee Today

If you've been charged with a domestic violence offense, you should speak to an experienced domestic violence defense attorney at Kaufman Monroe Law immediately. We will listen to your version of events, assess the strength of the evidence against you, and advise you of any defenses that may be available to you. Fill out an online submission form or call us at 901 202 4747 to schedule a Free consultation appointment today. This blog is not legal advice and does not replace the services of an experienced and qualified attorney.