DOMESTIC VIOLENCE DEFENSE LAWYERS
Serving Erie, Edinboro, Crawford and rest of Northwestern PA
Experienced Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers in Northwestern PA
Domestic violence allegations can lead to criminal charges, court-ordered restrictions, and consequences that affect your family, reputation, and future. Depending on the circumstances, an incident may result in charges such as simple assault, aggravated assault, terroristic threats, stalking, or other criminal offenses.
The Travis Law Firm represents individuals facing criminal charges throughout Northwestern Pennsylvania. If you have been accused of domestic violence, understanding the specific allegations, the evidence, and your legal options is essential.
Types of Domestic Violence Charges
Domestic violence is not a single criminal offense under Pennsylvania law. Instead, incidents involving family members, household members, or intimate partners may lead to different charges depending on the alleged conduct.
Simple Assault
Simple assault charges may arise from allegations that a person caused or attempted to cause bodily injury, or engaged in conduct that placed another person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury. The specific circumstances determine whether the charge is supported by the evidence.
Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault involves more serious allegations and can carry significantly greater penalties than simple assault. The applicable charge depends on the alleged conduct, the circumstances, and the relevant provisions of Pennsylvania law.
Terroristic Threats
Terroristic threats charges may involve allegations that someone communicated a threat to commit a crime of violence with the intent to terrorize another person. The wording, context, and surrounding evidence can be important to evaluating the allegation.
Stalking and Harassment
Stalking and harassment charges may arise from allegations involving repeated conduct, unwanted contact, threats, or behavior that meets the legal definition of the offense. The facts and applicable statutory requirements determine whether a charge is appropriate.
Recklessly Endangering Another Person
This charge may arise when someone is accused of recklessly engaging in conduct that places or may place another person in danger of death or serious bodily injury.
Potential Consequences of a Domestic Violence Charge
The consequences depend on the specific offense, the grading of the charge, the circumstances, and the person's prior record. A conviction may result in:
- Fines, probation, or incarceration
- A misdemeanor or felony criminal record
- Restrictions on contact with another person
- Effects on family or custody proceedings
- Firearm restrictions under applicable law
- Additional consequences for violating a court order
An arrest or accusation does not establish guilt. However, criminal charges and related court orders should be taken seriously from the beginning.
Defending Against Domestic Violence Allegations
Every criminal case depends on its own facts and evidence. A defense attorney can review the allegations and assess whether the prosecution can establish the required elements of the charged offense.
Depending on the circumstances, relevant issues may include:
- Conflicting accounts: Whether witness statements differ and whether those differences affect the reliability of the allegations.
- Available evidence: Whether police reports, photographs, messages, recordings, or other evidence support the account of events.
- Self-defense: Whether the facts support a legally recognized claim of self-defense.
- Credibility and inconsistencies: Whether statements or other evidence raise questions that need to be examined.
- The legality of police actions: Whether law enforcement followed applicable legal requirements during the investigation, search, or seizure.
- The specific criminal charge: Whether the evidence supports each required element of the offense.
The appropriate defense depends on the evidence and applicable law. No particular outcome can be guaranteed.
Protection From Abuse Orders (PFA)
A Protection From Abuse order, commonly called a PFA, is a civil court order that may restrict contact, require someone to leave a residence, establish other protective conditions, or impose firearm-related requirements.
A PFA proceeding is separate from a criminal prosecution, although the same underlying incident may be relevant to both. A person may face a PFA petition, criminal charges, or both.
H3: What Happens if a PFA Order Is Issued?
The terms of the order control what is permitted. Depending on the order, restrictions may include:
- No contact with the protected person
- Restrictions on entering a home or other specified locations
- Temporary provisions involving children or custody
- Requirements concerning firearms or ammunition
Read and follow every provision of an order. Do not assume that the protected person can cancel the order or authorize conduct that the order prohibits. Only the court can modify or terminate the order.
If you are facing a PFA proceeding or related criminal charges, an attorney can explain the process and help you understand your legal options.
Why Choose The Travis Law Firm?
The Travis Law Firm represents clients facing criminal charges in Erie, Edinboro, Crawford County, and throughout Northwestern Pennsylvania.
Our criminal defense team reviews the allegations, examines the available evidence, and works to protect clients' rights throughout the criminal process. Each case requires an approach based on the specific facts, applicable law, and potential consequences.
When you face a domestic violence allegation, it is important to understand the charge and the legal process before making decisions that may affect your future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence Charges in Pennsylvania
Contact Our Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers
The criminal defense attorneys at The Travis Law Firm know that an accusation of domestic violence or domestic abuse does not indicate proof of wrongdoing. We understand that claims of domestic violence or domestic abuse can have serious repercussions for the accused, and we want to provide legal counsel for those who need to defend their rights.
Contact The Travis Law Firm to discuss your situation and learn about your legal options.
Call The Travis Law Firm at (814) 277-2222 to discuss your case.
* THE TRAVIS LAW FIRM, P.C., only handles cases involving Personal Injury, Wrongful Death, Workers’ Compensation, DUI, and Criminal Defense.
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Amy M.
"I would Highly recommend Attorney Travis. He and his staff very friendly and professional. I was quite concerned over my case, Attorney Travis took the time to explain everything to me and made me feel confident he could help me. Everything worked out great. I really appreciate his personal and professional help."
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"Highly recommend Grant Travis and his staff. The best decision I’ve ever made was to hire him to represent my case. The knowledge and professionalism of Grant and his staff is top notch! You will not go wrong chosing him to represent you! Thanks again Grant!!"