Domestic Violence

Understanding Domestic Violence Charges

Engaging in a heated exchange or making emotional outbursts that may include threats or physical actions can result in legal complications. For example, if someone contacts law enforcement during a domestic dispute, you could face serious charges of domestic violence. It’s important to note that West Virginia law mandates immediate arrests at the scene of a domestic incident. Fighting such charges often feels like battling a built-in bias, which is why working with an experienced Martinsburg criminal lawyer to protect your rights is essential.

At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, our attorneys specialize in cases involving domestic abuse and domestic violence. With years of experience, we confidently handle sensitive cases and provide the right legal representation. From analyzing the events leading to your arrest to interviewing witnesses, our team builds a robust defense to help you achieve the best possible outcome. 

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence, as defined by West Virginia law, involves threatening or violent acts committed against someone with whom the accused shares—or has shared—a close or intimate relationship. This could include relationships like partners, married couples, parents, roommates, or step-parents living under the same roof.

Examples of Domestic Violence in West Virginia

Acts classified as domestic violence include but are not limited to:

• Physical harm or threats of harm
• Rape
• Kidnapping
• Statutory rape
• Sexual battery
• Sexual assault
• Criminal harassment (such as threatening letters or phone calls)
• Stalking
• Physical acts like pushing, hitting, slapping, choking, biting, or kicking.

If you’ve been accused of these actions, it is crucial to work with skilled lawyers to address your case.

Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction

Possible outcomes for someone convicted of domestic violence in West Virginia may include:

• Prison time
• Mandatory enrollment in domestic violence treatment programs
• Difficulty securing housing
• Restrictions on firearm ownership
• Limited access to children
• Problems finding or maintaining employment
• Restrictions on returning to your home
• Permanent restraining orders

At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, our Martinsburg DUI lawyer team understands what’s at stake. We have the experience necessary to address these challenges and aim to protect your rights from the start.

Penalties for Violating Domestic Violence Laws

The legal consequences for domestic violence in West Virginia are severe. Specific penalties include:

• First Offense: Up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $100.
• Second Offense: 30 days to 6 months in jail and a fine of $500.
• Domestic Battery (First Conviction): Up to 1 year in jail and a $500 fine.
• Domestic Battery (Second Conviction): Imprisonment ranging from 60 days to 1 year and a $1,000 fine.

Navigating these serious consequences requires reliable legal representation. The lawyers at Mountaineer Criminal Law Group have the expertise to mount a compelling defense in your case. For instances where alcohol may complicate your case, a Martinsburg criminal lawyer on our team will step in to address those angles.

Don’t Delay Seeking Legal Help

Facing domestic violence charges in West Virginia often comes with heavy emotional and legal burdens. When this happens, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who is committed to achieving the best results on your behalf. At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, we are here to help.

Contact us at (304) 381-3656 or connect online to schedule a completely confidential consultation. Conveniently located in Martinsburg, our office is ready to assist you through every step of the legal process.