Serious legal consequences follow domestic violence charges in Phoenix. You could end up in jail, pay hefty fines, and suffer lasting damage to your reputation and personal rights as a result of being convicted of domestic violence. If you are facing these charges, you cannot afford to make the kinds of mistakes that too many defendants make, which only leave them more vulnerable to unfavorable outcomes.
To help you avoid some of these same missteps, we put together a small list of some of the more common ones. For a deeper dive into the subject; read here: What are the 7 most common mistakes that can hurt your Phoenix domestic violence defense case?
Talking to the Police Without a Lawyer
When someone is charged with domestic violence, one of the biggest mistakes they make is talking to the cops without an attorney present. The things you say can and will be held against you in a court of law, and even what may seem to be innocent statements can be twisted and turned into something condemning.
You are allowed to keep your mouth closed so as to not incriminate yourself, and you are allowed to have an attorney present when any kind of questioning is going on.
Discussing Your Case on Social Media
Whatever you post online can be used in court. When facing serious criminal charges, watch what you say and do in public. And by public, that means anywhere outside the four walls of your house. Be fully aware that your social media can, and does, get monitored.
Assuming the Case Will Be Dropped Automatically
Numerous individuals hold the view that if the supposed harmed party does not wish to initiate actions in the courts, then the matter will be resolved and go away quietly. In the state of Arizona, domestic violence cases are taken up by the state. That means the government (the prosecutor’s office, to be precise) can and does take action even in the face of an uncooperative accuser.
For more about this and other mistakes frequently made in these types of cases – Read here: What are the 7 most common mistakes that can hurt your Phoenix domestic violence defense case?
Not Hiring an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
In Arizona, the laws pertaining to domestic violence are stringent. Attempting to move through the legal system in this state without the assistance of an attorney can lead to a number of difficulties and legal missteps. Seeking the services of such a professional right away is one of the best ways to protect your assets, reputation and future.
It’s a serious thing to be charged with domestic violence in Phoenix. It’s an even more serious thing when you’re accused of a crime you didn’t commit. Too many people think the charges will just “blow over” and don’t take proper action.
Or, they make the mistake of thinking a public defender will be as good as a private attorney. However, when you’re talking about your future, it’s best to leave it in the hands of skilled and seasoned legal professionals