Metairie Domestic Violence Lawyer
Crimes of domestic violence are taken very seriously in Louisiana. These criminal acts are just like others, such as assault and battery. However, when these crimes are allegedly committed against other members of the family or household, the prosecution becomes particularly aggressive. Law enforcement agencies are eager to take alleged domestic violence offenders off the street by incarcerating them, even when the alleged victim does not wish to pursue charges. If you have been charged with this offense, it is crucial that you speak to a Metairie domestic violence lawyer who can help.
What Constitutes Domestic Violence in Metairie?
Domestic violence occurs when one member of a family or household is violent or threatening towards another member of the same household or family. One of the most common offenses committed during domestic violence is domestic abuse battery. Domestic abuse battery occurs when one member of a household willfully uses violence or force against another household member.
As domestic violence occurs between members of the same household, it is important to know how the law defines the term. According to the Louisiana statutes, a household member is anyone who:
- Is someone of the opposite sex of the defendant and who resides with the defendant, regardless of whether or not they are married,
- Is someone of the opposite sex of the defendant, and who lived with the defendant, within five years of the domestic abuse battery, regardless of the marital status between the two,
- Is a child residing with the defendant, or who has resided with the defendant within five years before the domestic abuse battery occurred, and
- Any child of the defendant, whether or not the minor lives with the defendant or not.
Common Criminal Offenses Associated with Domestic Violence
There are many criminal offenses that are associated with domestic violence, but some are more common than others. These include:
- Harassment
- Stalking/aggravated stalking
- Cyberstalking
- Criminal neglect
- Criminal abandonment
- Violation of protective order
How to Respond to a Protective Order
Protective orders are very common in domestic violence cases. These orders are issued by a judge to alleged victims and prevent defendants from contacting them, and sometimes even their children. Protective orders can sometimes be very harmful, as they can interfere with your relationship with your children. IF you have been served with a protective order, the most important steps to take include:
- Read the protective order in its entirety and follow any instructions contained within it. Violating a protective order will result in serious consequences.
- Contact a Metairie domestic violence lawyer who can defend against the order on your behalf.
- Collect and organize documents and evidence that can help your case.
- Attend the hearing, which is not mandatory but can help prevent the order from becoming permanent.
Call Our Domestic Violence Lawyer in Metairie Now
Being accused of domestic violence is a very serious matter. At Palazzo Law Firm, our Metairie domestic violence lawyer can prepare the defense you need to protect your future and ensure your rights are upheld. Call us now at 504-433-1442 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to learn more.
