Charleston Domestic Violence Lawyer
Being accused of domestic violence can have long-lasting and significant consequences on your life, particularly if physical harm is involved. Aside from the possibility of imprisonment and steep fines, you may also lose your job and child custody or visitation rights.
Our Charleston domestic violence lawyer at Wyndham Law Firm, Robert J. Wyndham, has over 30 years of experience defending against allegations of domestic violence in the Dorchester, Berkeley, Georgetown, and Charleston counties. We will use our experience and resources to ensure that your best interests are protected.
A Domestic Violence Conviction in Charleston Carries Steep Penalties
Depending on the circumstances of the domestic violence incident, you may be charged with:
- First-Degree Domestic Violence – Felony
- Second-Degree Domestic Violence
- Third-Degree Domestic Violence
- Domestic Violence of a High and Aggravated Nature (DVHAN) – Felony
The penalties for a domestic violence conviction can include imprisonment for 90 days up to 20 years and fines of $1,000 up to $5,000. The penalties can also be increased depending on:
- Your criminal history
- The risk of or degree of harm involved
- Whether a minor or pregnant person was involved
- Whether you used a weapon during the incident
- Whether you violated a restraining order against you
- Whether you committed theft, burglary, robbery, or kidnapping
- Whether you tried to stop the alleged victim from sending a text or calling for help
- Whether choking was involved
How Our Charleston Domestic Violence Lawyer Will Fight for You
When your family life, reputation, career, and freedom are at stake, you deserve to have an experienced Charleston domestic violence lawyer fighting for you. At Wyndham Law Firm, you can expect our Charleston domestic violence lawyer to:
- Fully investigate the case and charges against you to uncover vital evidence that may support your case.
- Listen carefully to your side of the story without judgment.
- Negotiate wisely for the dismissal of your case or reduced charges.
- Defend and advocate fiercely for your legal rights and freedom in court if necessary.
Charleston Domestic Violence FAQs
I Am Not Guilty of Domestic Violence. Do I Still Need a Lawyer?
Yes. Once you’ve been arrested for or charged with domestic violence, you must prove your innocence and fight the prosecution’s case against you. Your Charleston domestic violence lawyer will know what to do to prove your innocence.
Can I Claim Self-Defense If I’m Accused of Domestic Violence?
Yes. But you will need to prove the specific elements of self-defense to justify that your use of violence was reasonable and that you had no other choice but to use violence under the circumstances.
What If There’s a Restraining Order Against Me, But The “Victim” is Contacting Me?
Do not engage at all costs because doing so is a violation of the restraining order. They will not get in trouble, but you will if they report that you engaged with them. Call your Charleston domestic violence lawyer for advice on what else you should do to protect yourself.
Get Legal Assistance From Our Skilled Charleston Domestic Violence Lawyer
If you have been arrested for or charged with domestic violence, you must act right away and take the proper steps to protect your rights. Schedule your free case evaluation with the Charleston domestic violence lawyer at Wyndham Law Firm by calling 843-279-5312 or completing our online form.