If you’re under investigation for domestic violence, take quick action to protect your freedom, legal rights, and reputation. Domestic violence-related crimes need to be taken seriously. They should be handled by an experienced, knowledgeable defense attorney you can trust.
Kevin Churchill limits his practice to criminal defense law. This focus allows him to stay on top of the many legal developments that others who do this part-time may miss. Mr. Churchill has sharp courtroom and trial skills that can make a big difference in your case. If you need help with a domestic violence case, call him today at (303) 832-9000.
What is Domestic Violence?
It’s a term covering many types of alleged crimes involving people in a relationship, formerly in a relationship, or who are family members. These crimes are committed to coerce, control, punish, intimidate, or seek revenge against the victim. The most common charges include:
- Assault
- Harassment
- Stalking
- Menacing
- Wiretapping
- False Imprisonment
- Child Abuse
- Violating a Restraining Order
Depending on the facts of your case and your prior record, these crimes may be charged as felonies. Punishment can be a year or more in jail and heavy fines.
Many of these claims are false or exaggerated. For instance:
- If you’re getting divorced or involved in a child custody dispute, the other party might be trying to get the upper hand in negotiations or the legal process
- This may be a way to extort money from you or harm your reputation
- You may have been the victim of domestic violence, but you didn’t report it. If you defended yourself, the other person may falsely claim you started an altercation
What Should I Do If I Learn a Domestic Violence Complaint Has Been Made Against Me?
If you’re contacted by police, other than identifying yourself, don’t answer any questions. Don’t get angry or start talking about the person making the complaint. Take a breath, keep calm, and tell the officer you’ll be contacting an attorney before discussing the allegations. The officer is doing his or her job and is not your enemy. Unless you’re arrested, don’t get into the police cruiser or go to the police station.
If the officer places you in custody, have a friend or family member contact our office. We will talk about what happened and start building your defense. If the other party was the aggressor, you defended yourself and you were bruised or wounded, take photos. We will talk about your relationship, what led to the allegations, and any witnesses who may help your case.
Don’t just assume the investigation will go away. Take action to defend your rights and show the other party you won’t put up with false claims against you. With my help, we can explain what happened, if anything, provide facts and evidence that may clear you, and the investigation could close without an arrest.
What Should I Do If I’m Arrested?
Comply with the directions you’re given but don’t answer any questions or volunteer any information. You may be released on a promise to appear or need to post a bond before you can leave. Focus on getting through this process and getting home. When you do, call our office, so we can start putting your defense together.
It’s essential you not cooperate with the investigation until you talk to me. What you think may help your case may complicate your defense or make you appear guilty. As you should’ve heard when you were given your Miranda warnings:
- You have a right to remain silent
- What you say really can be used against you in a court of law
- You have a Constitutional right to consult with an attorney before saying anything to police or answering their questions
These are your rights. Use them.
You Can Trust Kevin Churchill to Defend You Against Domestic Violence Charges
Kevin Churchill has successfully defended hundreds of people caught up in our justice system. He has a strong trial record and often resolves cases through plea agreements that limit the arrest’s consequences. Every stone will be turned to put you in the best bargaining position possible.
If you’re facing a domestic violence investigation or arrest, call Kevin Churchill today at (303) 832-9000 for a free consultation.
