It is against the law to place a loved one in fear of an imminent act of violence in North Carolina. No physical contact needs to occur to be charged with this type of Domestic Violence. If you are a victim of violence you should call the police and then contact a domestic violence lawyer to help seek protection from the courts. If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, you are facing serious criminal sanctions. A defense attorney will be needed to help protect your rights through the process and understand the law. A domestic violence lawyer will know how to both help victims of violence get the protection they deserve, and defend those accused of committing the crime of domestic violence. Whether you’re a victim, or feel you’ve been falsely accused, the court system can be helpful in offering support through mediation, classes, and stay away orders to help resolve the family crisis.
Defining Domestic Violence
In Wake County, NC, domestic violence is defined under N.C. General Statutes Chapter 50B. The 50B statute addresses violence between people involved in a personal relationship.
Defining the Term “Relationship”
The term “relationship” can mean many things under the law. A domestic violence lawyer in Wake County understands the specifics of the term. This term refers to two individuals who:
* Are currently or were formerly spouses
* Are of opposite genders who have lived together or are currently cohabiting
* Are actual or acting as a parent to a minor. It can also refer to grandparents and their grandchildren
* Are or were household members
* Are members of opposite sex who are or once were in a romantic relationship
The Charge of Domestic Violence
A charge of domestic violence encompasses a variety of different types of behavior. Whether or not your actions or the actions of your assailant constituted domestic violence is something your attorney can help you sort through. The behavior can range from verbal threats to physical assault. Domestic violence cases can be tried on any of the following charges:
* Putting someone in fear of imminent physical injury
* Creating an atmosphere of fear in which an individual becomes so afraid that they suffer emotional distress.
* Harassment and Stalking
* Kidnapping
* First or second degree rape
* First or second degree sexual offense
* Statutory rape involving someone 13 , 14 or even 15 years of age
* Sexual interference with a child
* Other sexual offenses
Domestic violence in NC is a serious offense with severe penalties and related consequences. Anyone who is living in or faces such a situation needs to seek protection from the courts. If you’ve been accused of committing an act of domestic violence you need to seek the services of an experienced defense attorney. If you are a victim, reporting the crime and contacting a reputable, experience and skilled domestic violence lawyer in Wake County is one way to ensure your safety. It can provide the first step in removing yourself and your family from the threats, harassment and dangers that domestic violence presents. By putting yourself in the right hands, you start the process of taking back control of your own life.
If you find yourself in a threatening and unpleasant domestic situation, immediately contact a Domestic Violence Lawyer In Wake County. At Scharff Law Firm, PLLC, our team of experienced lawyers will immediately go to work to protect you and your family from danger. If you’re being charged with domestic violence, we can help defend and guide you through the process. Whichever side you are on, you deserve to be in a healthy and safe relationship free from unhealthy drama. The Scharff Law Firm can help you get there, and will utilize the resources of the criminal justice system to achieve a new beginning for you.
