This is the first post in a series of articles discussing defending against domestic violence charges in Little Rock, Arkansas. We have previously written on Arkansas domestic violence accusations generally. In this series, we will address several additional important topics about such matters. Arkansas, compared to many other states, is particularly tough when it comes to prosecuting domestic battery charges. Many individuals believe that they can plead guilty to a charge and it will quietly become part of their past. This is not the case. It is imperative to vigorously defend oneself against domestic violence allegations to avoid potentially significant criminal penalties and other long-term impacts of a conviction. The goal of this series is to provide more detailed information about defending against Arkansas’ domestic battery charges. If you need assistance, contact our office today to speak with a lawyer.
This series will focus on the following key subjects:
- Claiming self-defense in domestic battery cases
- Fifth Amendment issues in domestic violence matters
- The serious nature of Arkansas’ third-degree domestic battery laws
- Defending against domestic violence charges at trial
- How a domestic battery conviction could impact ongoing child custody proceedings
If you are facing allegations of domestic violence in Arkansas, it is important to understand these topics for several reasons. First, individuals have the right to defend themselves against an attack from another person. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for someone exercising this right to be misidentified as the initial aggressor in a dispute. When this occurs, it is important to present evidence to set the record straight and avoid a domestic violence conviction. Second, when police are investigating an incident involving family members, they must still abide by certain rules to protect those who are being questioned, including providing Miranda warnings. Failure to do so when a person is in police custody may lead to the exclusion of certain evidence in a case. Next, third-degree domestic battery convictions are extremely serious in Arkansas. While this charge is a misdemeanor, it is punishable by up to one year in jail and will likely have long-term negative consequences on one’s ability to find or maintain employment, housing, or even possess a firearm in the future. It is imperative to understand the consequences of such a conviction. Fourth, one must have an understanding of what to expect when defending against domestic battery charges at trial. Finally, if a domestic violence conviction should occur while a child custody matter is pending, the family law court will have no option but to take such information into consideration. This could have devastating consequences on the outcome of one’s custody case. An experienced criminal attorney can help defend you against such charges.
Our firm understands the sensitive nature of charges related to domestic violence. We believe all of our clients are entitled to a vigorous defense. If you need assistance, contact us today to speak to a lawyer. In addition to Little Rock, we also handle matters in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff, and throughout the rest of Arkansas.