Being accused of, or charged with, a domestic violence charge in Louisiana has the potential to carry with it devastating penalties upon conviction. These consequences can have severe, long-lasting effects on the life of the individual convicted, including loss of potential job prospects and lifelong reputational damage.
If you have been charged with any form of domestic violence in Louisiana, it’s vital to get in touch with an experienced Louisiana criminal defense attorney like those at Jones Law Partners to help protect your rights and your freedom.
What Is The Definition Of Domestic Violence In Louisiana
The Louisiana state legislature defines domestic battery in RS 14 §35.3 as:
“…the intentional use of force or violence committed by one household member or family member upon the person of another household member or family member…”
There are also additional statutes for violence against those who aren’t household members but may still have interpersonal relationships, such as dating partners.
This includes but is not limited to acts such as:
- physical abuse,
- sexual abuse,
- stalking,
- cyberstalking,
- abuse of an adult, and
- any other crime in the state of Louisiana that is perpetrated against someone in a domestic capacity
What Are The Consequences Of A Domestic Violence Charge In Louisiana?
Depending on the charges and the specifics of the case, there are many potential consequences for domestic violence charges in Louisiana, including possible jail time, substantial fines, and more.
- Restraining Orders
A restraining order may be issued against the defendant, which will prohibit them from having any contact with the victim. This can have a significant impact on the defendant’s personal and professional life, up to and including forcing them to move to a new home.
- Fines
Domestic violence convictions can result in court-ordered fines, which can be substantial. As an example, a first conviction of domestic abuse battery can lead to a $1,000 fine, while a second conviction doubles the fine.
- Imprisonment
The sentence for a domestic violence conviction can range from a few days to several years in prison, depending on the severity of the charges and the defendant’s criminal record. For example, a first offense of domestic abuse battery, which is defined as intentionally or recklessly causing bodily harm to a household member, can result in a sentence of up to six months in jail.
- Probation
Sometimes instead of jail time – and sometimes in addition to it – individuals convicted of domestic violence charges may need to serve a period of probation. This will often require that they be monitored by a probation officer and required to comply with certain probationary conditions, such as attending counseling or completing community service.
- Loss Of Rights
Individuals convicted of certain domestic violence charges may lose some of their rights. Most domestic violence convictions will prevent the individual from owning a gun, and being convicted of a felony domestic violence charge will prevent the defendant from voting in the future.
- Damage To Reputation
Domestic violence charges and convictions can have a damaging impact on a person’s reputation, which can affect their ability to obtain employment, housing, or other benefits.
Contact Jones Law Partners For Your Defense Strategies
Everyone has a right to legal representation, but many defendants leave their rights in the hands of a public defender, who may or may not have the time needed to give your case the attention it deserves. When you hire Jones Law Partners, we’ll work hard to ensure you keep your rights and your reputation. Reach out today to discuss your case in a confidential environment and get started on your defense.
