When a disagreement at home involves threats or physical confrontations, you could face a domestic violence charge. Likewise, if you are on the receiving end of verbal, physical, or emotional harm, you may feel scared and unsure of where to turn.
In either scenario, you need a dedicated attorney at Carmiece Graves Law. An Upper Marlboro domestic violence lawyer has the skills and compassion to help you understand what steps to take to move forward.
Relationship Status Determines Whether a Crime Is Domestic Violence
When someone commits certain crimes against a member of their household, the crime could be considered a domestic violence offense. A member of the household includes a spouse or former spouse, intimate partner, family member, roommate, or a vulnerable adult who requires full-time care.
Maryland Statute § 4-501 describes the crimes that could be considered domestic violence. They include:
- Assault
- Stalking
- Child abuse
- Revenge porn
- False imprisonment
- Rape or attempted rape
- Any action that causes bodily harm
- Various sexual offenses or attempted sexual offenses
- Any threat or action that puts someone in fear of bodily harm
It is also potentially a domestic violence crime if someone violates a protective order, and an Upper Marlboro domestic violence attorney could provide further clarity as it pertains to an individual case.
Protective Orders in Domestic Violence Cases
A protective order could help a victim of domestic violence avoid further contact with the person who is causing them harm. In many instances, these court orders prevent a person from:
- Seeing their children
- Returning to their home
- Commenting on the victim’s social media
- Approaching the victim at work or any other place
- Contacting the victim in person or through any other means
Protective orders also sometimes ban an accused person from trying to contact the victim through the mail or via third parties.
The person seeking a protective order must offer evidence that the accused party has caused them bodily harm, or they have a reasonable fear the accused might cause them bodily harm. However, the bodily harm does not need to be significant—a bruise or scratch could be sufficient harm to justify a protective order.
Once a protective order is in effect, an accused person must obey it or face further criminal charges. An Upper Marlboro attorney could help someone who has faced domestic violence obtain a protective order and determine what other options may be available for further protecting themselves and their children.
Contact an Upper Marlboro Attorney for Guidance After a Domestic Violence Event
Contact an Upper Marlboro domestic violence lawyer immediately if you are harmed in a scenario that could be considered domestic or family violence. Our team will stand by you throughout the civil and criminal proceedings to ensure your rights and safety are protected. Call Carmiece Graves Law today for a consultation.