In Indiana, domestic violence charges are taken very seriously. Domestic violence charges are either misdemeanor or felony offenses. Domestic battery or domestic abuse allegations arise in many ways. Moreover, cases often involve factual discrepancies, including “he said, she said” disputes. Unravelling the details and preparing a solid defense are benchmarks of Hayes Law Office.
At Hayes Law Office in Indianapolis, the domestic violence defense lawyer compassionately handles all domestic violence cases with diligence and discretion. Lead domestic violence defense attorney Philip Hayes has 18 years of experience as a criminal trial lawyer. Mr. Hayes draws on substantial criminal defense experience to fight for clients.
Mr. Hayes has a commanding courtroom presence. He is known for his hard work in evaluating the evidence, police reports, cross examining witnesses and presenting a formidable defense strategy. In every case criminal defense lawyer Philip Hayes fights to obtain the best outcome. This includes fighting for dismissal or a reduction in the charges — or fighting for acquittal, if trial becomes necessary. The defense strategy may also need to involve fighting to minimize potential consequences.
Types Of Indiana Domestic Violence Offenses
Domestic violence cases involve all types of family and household abuse allegations, including:
- Shoving
- Hitting
- Strangulation
- Battery
- Physical child abuse
- Neglect of a dependent
- Invasion of privacy
- Criminal confinement
- Interfering with the reporting of a crime
- Violations of a protective order
Defending against domestic violence requires serious research and investigation, and attention to the facts of the case. Similarly, each case is unique. Your lawyer must have the experience to know how to look at the details. Depend on the skilled criminal defense attorney at Hayes Law Office to help you to safeguard your rights.
Helpful Information About Domestic Violence In Indiana
The laws surrounding domestic violence charges are very complex. Philip Hayes frequently answers specific questions for clients. It is important that your lawyer provides you with the information you need to understand your rights. Below is a listing of some frequently asked questions regarding domestic offenses in Indiana.
What is domestic violence in Indiana?
Indiana defines domestic violence as a crime or act of physical violence against a current or former family member, household member or intimate partner. The relationship or former relationship between the accused and victim is key. Relationships are defined broadly. The statute identifies a range that includes family members, household members, spouses, ex-spouses, boyfriends, girlfriends, exes and couples living together as spouses.
What is a stalking charge in Indiana?
Under Indiana’s Criminal Code, stalking is two or more repeated incidents that cause emotional distress to the victim. Stalking allegations include:
- Contacting someone in person
- Contacting someone through the mail, phone, email or another method
- Following someone on foot or in a car
- Trespassing on someone’s property
- Threats of violence
- Threats of sexual assault or battery
The state usually prosecutes criminal stalking as a Level 6 or Level 5 felony.
What Are The Penalties For Domestic Violence?
When the police are called to assist in a domestic violence incident in Indiana, one or both parties will usually go to jail. Yet, even if the spouse or domestic partner is not interested in pressing charges, the state may proceed without the victim. If a spouse is injured in a domestic altercation, potential penalties range from the Class A misdemeanor level, which is punishable with a sentence of up to one year in jail and a potential $5,000 fine, up to a Level 2 felony, which may result in a prison sentence.
The penalties for domestic violence charges include probation, jail or prison time, fines, civil protective order restrictions and loss of gun rights. For these reasons, it is extremely important to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Your domestic violence defense lawyer must fully understands the scope of the charges against you. You need a defense attorney who is committed to resolving your case as favorably as possible.
Can a victim drop domestic battery charges in Indiana?
This varies from situation to situation. Unlike other states in the U.S., Indiana does not have a no-drop law that requires the District Attorney’s Office to prosecute domestic battery charges. However, even if a person the state identifies as a victim makes it known that they do not want the suspect to face charges, many districts will pursue charges anyway.
Let The Law Firm’s Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Protect Your Rights And Freedom
The conviction for a domestic violence case will likely leave you with a lifetime of adverse consequences. The types of issues include a potential impact on job opportunities, family relationships, and social life. Let criminal defense lawyer Philip Hayes help you to protect your reputation and your future with his experience and commitment to you.
Hayes Law Office will do whatever it takes to clear your name and help you get the best possible outcome in your case. For more information, call (317) 759-1515 or email the firm today. Serving clients in Indianapolis, Carmel, McCordsville and beyond.
