Mt. Lebanon Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Domestic Violence Attorney in Mt. Lebanon

Legal problems involving domestic violence in Mt. Lebanon can lead to serious and long-lasting consequences. Potential penalties can often include jail time, loss of rights, payment of fines, and a detrimental blow to your reputation and future endeavors. One of the most important decisions you can make right now is to get a Mt. Lebanon domestic violence defense lawyer.

Hire a Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer With Experience

Louis W. Emmi, Attorney at Law, has over 40 years of criminal defense experience. Our team of attorneys and legal staff is well-equipped to handle your case and potentially minimize your charges and the domestic violence penalties you could incur. We value open communication and professionalism, treat every client with respect, and take every case seriously.

How Does Pennsylvania Identify Domestic Violence?

In Pennsylvania, domestic violence is any criminal behavior that occurs between family or household members. For example, assault, stalking, and harassment can all be potential domestic violence charges in Pennsylvania. 

It is important to understand that domestic violence isn’t always physical. Studies show that 88% of reported victims of domestic abuse have experienced non-physical abuse. This includes threats, intimidation, and stalking. Harassment charges can even be filed against an individual for such behaviors as constant checking in, excessive texting, or driving by the victim’s home or work without cause. 

A Protection From Abuse Order

A protection from abuse order, also called a PFA, is defined in 23 Pa.C.S. § 6101 et seq. This law protects victims of domestic violence by giving them the opportunity to request a civil order that restricts someone accused of domestic violence against them from contacting them. 

Criminal charges are not necessary to obtain a PFA. To get a PFA in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania you have to request the protection order from the Family Law Center, PFA Department, located at 440 Ross Street, Suite 301, in Pittsburgh. Modifications to existing PFA orders are also handled here.

If someone has filed a PFA against you, you need to speak to a Mt. Lebanon domestic violence defense attorney as soon as possible. This is not a situation to take lightly, and it is important that you understand the implications of a PFA. These orders can impact both your personal and professional life and should be taken seriously.

Violations of a PFA order can lead to immediate arrest. A first-time violation of a PFA can bring a charge of indirect criminal contempt, or ICC. If convicted, the domestic violence penalties could be fines from $300 to $1,000, potential probation, and/or up to six months of jail time. Separate criminal charges may also be filed, such as stalking or harassment.

How a Mt. Lebanon Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Can Help

When you hire a domestic violence defense lawyer to represent you, they can first ensure your rights are protected and that you understand the Pennsylvania domestic violence defense laws that apply to you and how that is important in determining what defense strategy your attorney can use in your case. Other ways an attorney can benefit your case are below: 

• Obtain and analyze evidence from the prosecution, which might include police reports, physical evidence, phone records, witness statements, etc. This is crucial in evaluating whether the evidence is disputable or credible.
• Enter into plea negotiations with prosecutors to potentially get the domestic violence penalties reduced, get the charges dropped altogether, or arrange an alternative sentence, such as a program specifically for reforming domestic violence offenders.
• Craft a domestic violence defense strategy, such as a lack of intent or self-defense, and present your defense in the event of a trial.

Don’t wait to consult with a Mt. Lebanon domestic violence defense attorney. The sooner you speak to a lawyer, the more time they have to work on your case.

FAQs

What Is the Optimal Defense for Domestic Violence Charges?

The optimal defense for domestic violence charges depends on what the specific charges are. In many cases, the go-to domestic violence defense strategy is self-defense. When this doesn’t apply, however, a defense that challenges some or all of the evidence or questions if the defendant’s constitutional rights were protected is a common defense strategy used in domestic violence cases. 

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Pennsylvania?

The cost of a criminal defense lawyer in Pennsylvania can vary. The overall cost for legal services is determined by the complexity of the case, the severity of the charges, and the time required to resolve the case. Other factors that affect pricing include lawyer fees, fee structure, such as hourly rate versus flat rate, and region. For an accurate estimate for your case, consult with a Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer near you.

Why Do Most Domestic Violence Cases Get Dismissed?

It is a common misconception that most domestic violence cases get dismissed. This is based on an old notion that victims won’t press charges. But even if the victim doesn’t press charges, the state may. Some offenders are eligible for treatment programs in lieu of jail, but it is less likely that these cases will get dismissed completely. With probable cause and valid evidence, many prosecutors can turn a domestic violence charge into a conviction. 

What Is Strong Evidence in a Domestic Violence Case?

In a domestic violence case, strong evidence typically is tangible evidence that can’t be refuted or discredited. Examples include text messaging records or other forms of communication, like emails or direct messages. Photographs or videos of criminal acts or existing physical harm shown on the victim’s body after the abuse occurred can also be powerful evidence. Witness testimony and medical records are other types of strong evidence.

Connect With an Effective Mt. Lebanon Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

If you’ve been charged with a domestic violence crime or served with a PFA order, it is essential that you have fierce representation to protect your rights and interests. Contact Louis W. Emmi, Attorney at Law, as soon as possible to discuss your case.