Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in Raleigh, North Carolina

Allegations of domestic violence can bring serious disruptions into your life. If you live with your accuser, you will need to move out of your home, at least temporarily, even if the allegations are entirely fabricated. Hire an experienced attorney who will dedicate the time and attention necessary to pursuing your best interests.

Dewey P. Brinkley is a former Wake County Prosecutor who spent nearly a full year practicing in the Wake County Domestic Violence Courtroom. He has handled hundreds of criminal cases. To schedule a free initial consultation, contact our offices online or call 919-832-0307 any time.

After Domestic Violence Charges: What Next?

Domestic violence charges in Wake County are defined as any assault or violation of a protective order between individuals who have at some point been romantically involved. The defendant will usually be ordered to have no contact with his or her accuser until the case is resolved. If you live with the alleged victim, this means that you will not be able to go to your home while the no contact provision remains in effect — not even to gather belongings or to visit children — unless you are accompanied by a police officer. You are also restrained from visiting the accuser at work or school. A violation of the no contact provision will result in an order for your arrest being issued, usually with the judge setting a high secured bond.

First time offenders in Domestic Violence Court are sometimes afforded the opportunity to earn a dismissal of the charges, or a prayer for judgment continued, upon successful completion of certain requirements. These requirements may include, but are not limited to:

• Completion of a batterer's intervention program, either D.O.S.E. (Domestic Offenders Sentenced to Education) or an equivalent 26 week program.
• A substance abuse assessment and completion of the recommended treatment, if alcohol or drugs were a factor in the assault.
• The Safechild class, in instances where children may have witnessed the domestic violence.
• Family counseling, anger management classes or a mental health assessment and treatment.
• Conditions that the defendant have no contact with the victim, or not harass, assault or threaten the victim.

Depending on the client's criminal record, the court has wide latitude in sentencing the defendant charged with a domestic violence related offense. Punishments can include unsupervised probation, supervised probation with or without a period of intensive probation, and, in the worst case scenario, up to 150 days in jail.

We Can Help You Overcome Domestic Violence Charges

Our firm has successfully defended many individuals at trial who were wrongly accused of domestic violence. In other instances, we have persuaded the State to offer a dismissal of the charges under certain conditions. We understand the impact that a potential conviction of this nature places on an individual's life, present and future employment, and reputation in the community.

If you would like to schedule a free initial consultation to meet with attorney Brinkley, call us at 919-832-0307 or contact us online today.