A domestic violence charge is often the result of a difficult personal situation, but the legal consequences create a new set of challenges. The court process and penalties can cause you significant financial loss and may lead to a forced separation from those you love.
With my experience as both a prosecutor and skilled criminal defense attorney, I understand how your case will be built and how to effectively protect your rights. As a Laurens County domestic violence lawyer, I could advocate for you at this difficult time. Contact Chris Jones Law today to get started.
Domestic Violence Definitions and Charges
Under South Carolina Code Unannotated §§ 16-25-10 and 20, the definition of domestic violence involves “household members,” such as spouses or domestic partners currently in a relationship and any parent of a defendant’s child.
Domestic violence in the third degree is the basic offense, resulting from harming a household member or threatening to do so while creating a reasonable fear of imminent danger. More serious charges apply when the state alleges that you also:
- Used a firearm
- Choked the victim
- Violated a protective order
- Committed the act with a minor watching
- Prevented the victim from calling for help
- Acted during a robbery, burglary, kidnapping, or theft
- Knew or should have known that the victim was pregnant
- Had prior domestic violence convictions in the past 10 years
Under S.C. Ann. § 16-25-20 and S.C. Ann. § 16-25-65, the harm inflicted also determines the charge. When you are accused of acting with “extreme indifference to the value of human life,” such as by using a deadly weapon, the state charges you with domestic violence of a high or aggravated nature (DVHAN). If you are accused of abuse within the home in Laurens County, Attorney Christopher L. Jones of Chris Jones Law could help you understand the charges and provide you with legal representation.
Penalties for Domestic Violence
Under S.C. Code Ann. § 16-25-30, domestic violence charges carry varying penalties. These include:
- A minimum fine of $1,000, up to 90 days imprisonment, and possible loss of firearm rights for up to three years for third-degree domestic violence
- A Minimum fine of $2,500 and up to three years imprisonment, with possible loss of firearm rights for up to three years, following a second-degree domestic violence charge
- Up to 10 years imprisonment and loss of firearm rights for 10 years folloiwing a first-degree domestic violence charge, or a felony domestic violence charge
- Up to 20 years imprisonment and loss of firearm rights for life following a DVHAN
As a Laurens County attorney, I could review your domestic violence charges and advise you about the potential penalties.
How Can an Attorney Help?
I fight for the future of my Laurens County clients facing allegations of violent behavior in the home by providing skilled legal counsel. I seek every possible argument for reasonable doubt, including determining whether the police conducted a lawful arrest and if the evidence supports the state’s claims. I also investigate whether the alleged act took place at all and if the individuals involved meet the legal definition of household members of the defendant.
When the prosecution cannot answer these challenges with hard evidence, the solicitor may be willing to reduce your charges or agree to a lesser offense.
If You Are Facing Domestic Violence Charges, Contact a Laurens County Attorney Today
Beyond the legal penalties, a domestic violence charge carries a lasting social stigma that could jeopardize your career and complicate future housing applications. Christopher L. Jones is an experienced Laurens County domestic violence lawyer who could help you manage these challenges.
Contact Chris Jones Law today to schedule an initial consultation, review your case, and prepare your legal defense.
