Greenville Domestic Violence Lawyer

Put the Inside Knowledge of a Former Prosecutor to Work for You

A domestic violence charge can be terrifying and serious. Whether it is a first offense or repeat charge, the legal process you will face can be overwhelming. Ensuring that your legal rights are protected and that you have quality representation throughout the duration of this crisis is imperative. You will want a Greenville domestic violence lawyer who is experienced in handling such a charge, who knows the local courts, and who is dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible case result.

When faced with a domestic violence charge, we strongly advise you to contact Christopher L. Jones, Attorney at Law, where you will find capable legal counsel and support. Chris has prosecuted everything from DUIs and forgeries to murder and armed robbery. That experience as a prosecutor has given him a unique ability and insight into how the other side operates leading to better and more effective defense strategies.

Penalties for Domestic Violence

Domestic violence consists of causing some type of harm or injury to a family or household member. It can also occur through threatening the person with harm and putting him or her in fear of imminent danger. These crimes can be committed against spouses, ex-spouses, individuals who have a child together, and unmarried people who live together or who have lived together in the past.

These crimes can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances as follows:

  • 3rd degree is charged as a misdemeanor, carrying penalties of up to 90 days in jail
    and fines of $1,000 to $2,500.
  • 2nd degree is also a misdemeanor punishable up to three years in jail and fines of
    $2,000 to $5,000.
  • 1st degree is charged as a felony, punishable by up to ten years in prison.
  • DV high and aggravated, is a domestic crime involving the use of a deadly weapon or that causes serious bodily injury. It is charged as a felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

Courts can also order you to complete a batterers’ program or a substance abuse program. These programs may be ordered and completed in lieu of jail time at the court’s discretion. A skilled attorney in Greenville could work to mitigate the negative consequences of a domestic violence charge.

Cross-Examining Witnesses

Here at Christopher L. Jones, Attorney at Law, we have the knowledge as attorneys to properly cross-examine witnesses in a Greenville domestic violence case. We do the following:

  • Was your accuser the primary aggressor?
  • Did the witness give law enforcement different statements and were they conflicting?
  • Did law enforcement persuade the witness to say a certain statement?
  • Did the accuser try to gain from a divorce or child custody case?
  • Does the police or law enforcement have different accounts?

Can a Domestic Violence Charge Be Dropped in Greenville?

A domestic violence case can be dropped, but not by the victim. The state charges the accused. The victim does not. Even if the victim doesn’t want to cooperate with the police or prosecutor, the prosecutor can still bring forth charges. An unwilling victim makes the prosecutor’s job of proving the case more difficult, but there are situations when a prosecutor will push forward with the case. The victim can ask for the charges to be dropped, but the victim does not have the power to drop them. This can be confusing since the arresting officer asks the victim to complete a form about whether or not to prosecute the case. A Greenville attorney could explain the intricacies of dropping a domestic violence case in more detail.

Common Defenses Against Domestic Violence Claims

While domestic violence charges may seem overwhelming and daunting, there are defenses available depending on the specific facts of a case. An experienced Greenville lawyer could assess your case and build a robust defense that makes sense for your unique situation. Possible defenses include:

  • Lack of Evidence: A lack of sufficient evidence is one of the greatest defenses. You can’t be convicted if there is not enough evidence to prove that you committed it.
  • Self Defense: This can be an effective way to fight a domestic violence claim. Your defense attorney will have to prove that there was an imminent threat of harm and you had no choice but to fight back.
  • Falsely Accused: Proving the domestic violence claim was false. In divorce or child custody battles, it is common to claim domestic violence charges out of anger. A great defense attorney will find inconsistencies in the accuser’s claim.
  • It was an Accident: Rarely proven successful. Your attorney will have to prove that the act was not malicious or intentional, but was an accident.
  • Violence was Minor: Your attorney might try to prove that the harm was very minor and should not be considered a criminal act.

It is critical to seek legal counsel as soon as possible after being accused of domestic violence. Evidence can disappear and memories fade over time, so speaking with an attorney early on gives you the best chance at a strong case.

Contact a Greenville Domestic Violence Attorney Today

A domestic violence charge can spin your life out of control and have long-lasting consequences, leaving you with a permanent criminal record. Our firm is here to provide the support you need at this critical time and help you avoid or minimize the consequences. Schedule your free consultation with our Greenville domestic violence lawyer today.

Don’t wait to seek counsel for your urgent legal matter. Call our team today at (864) 625-2523 for a free consultation.

Why Trust Us to Pursue Your Case

We believe the best partnerships are those based on mutual trust. When you call us for your free consultation, you’ll speak directly to our lawyer. We believe it’s important from the get-go to foster direct communication with our clients to get a full understanding of their cases and what their needs are. Having all the details allows us to prepare accordingly as well as put a personal touch on all that we do.

Our Greenville lawyer is community and client-oriented. We strive to put your needs first in order to achieve results that work for you.

Personalized Service
Personalized Service
Former Municipal Judge
Former Municipal Judge
Deep Knowledge of the Legal System
Deep Knowledge of the Legal System
Former Solicitor in South Carolina
Former Solicitor in South Carolina
Highly Respected in the Legal Community
Highly Respected in the Legal Community
Nearly a Decade of Legal Experience
Nearly a Decade of Legal Experience
Recent Case Results
Effective Defense from a Former Prosecutor
Accident settled for policy limits of $1,000,000.00
Victim of DUI
Reduced to public disorderly conduct for time served
Attempted Murder and Arson 3rd Degree
Dismissed by prosecutor
Domestic Violence 3rd Degree
Dismissed at preliminary hearing
Domestic Violence 2nd Degree
Dismissed at preliminary hearing
Burglary 2nd Degree
Client Review

Knowledgeable and Thorough

Title: Knowledgeable and Thorough
N/A Christopher L. Jones, Attorney at Law 650 East Washington St.
Greenville
SC 29601
(864) 625-2523

Client Description: Mr. Jones represented me regarding a family matter that was criminal in nature. He was very knowledgeable, had great connections, and reviewed my file thoroughly before showing up in court. I would recommend him to anyone in a bad situation. He put in the work to get the job done effectively and was reasonably priced.

Rating: ★★★★★ 5 / 5 stars