A Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Committed To Justice
In Indiana, domestic violence charges are taken very seriously and can be charged as either misdemeanor or felony offenses. Harsh penalties are imposed on people convicted of violent crimes. Domestic battery or domestic abuse allegations may take many forms. Moreover, these kinds of allegations often involve factual discrepancies that take the form of so-called, “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 legal team compassionately handles all domestic violence cases with diligence and discretion. Lead 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 is known for his commanding courtroom presence and hard work in evaluating the evidence, cross examining witnesses and presenting a formidable defense. In every case criminal defense lawyer Philip Hayes fights to obtain dismissed or reduced charges, minimized consequences, or acquittal, if trial becomes necessary.
Types Of 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
Cases involving domestic violence can be emotionally charged. They may require some serious research and investigation in order to clarify the facts of the case. You can depend on the skilled criminal defense attorney at Hayes Law Office to help safeguard your rights throughout this process.
Giving You More Of The Information You Need
The laws surrounding domestic violence charges are very complex. Philip Hayes can answer any questions you have so you understand your rights and the path that lies before you. In this segment, you can read some of the answers he has provided to his clients’ most common questions.
What is domestic violence in Indiana?
Indiana defines domestic violence as a crime or act of physical violence against a current or former intimate partner. The relationship or former relationship between the alleged perpetrator and victim is key. Domestic violence may take place between 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 can include:
- Contacting someone in person
- Contacting someone through the mail, phone, email or another method
- Following someone by foot or by 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, which can result in multiple years of incarceration.
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, the potential penalty can range from the Class A misdemeanor level, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and a potential $5,000 fine, up to a Level 2 felony, which can 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 who fully understands the scope of the charges against you and is committed to resolving your case as favorably as possible.
Can an alleged 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 an alleged victim makes it known that they do not want the suspect prosecuted, many districts will pursue charges regardless.
Let The Firm’s Attorney Protect Your Rights And Freedom
The outcome of a domestic violence case can leave you with a lifetime of consequences that can affect your job, family, and social life. Let criminal defense lawyer Philip Hayes help you protect your reputation and your future with their 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 317-982-6122 or email the firm today. Serving clients in Indianapolis, Carmel, McCordsville and beyond.