Milwaukee Domestic Violence Attorney
Defending Those Facing Domestic Violence Charges In Waukesha And Kenosha Counties
A person can be charged with “domestic violence” if they intentionally cause harm to a family member or someone in their household. Someone can also face these charges if their conduct makes another family or household member reasonably believe they are in imminent danger. In other words, someone can be arrested for domestic violence even if no one is physically harmed.
With so much at stake, you need a capable legal representative when you are facing any type of domestic violence charge. Our Milwaukee domestic violence legal team is led by attorney May Lee, a former prosecutor who understands how to effectively approach these cases. At Lee Law Firm, LLC, we care about our clients and we are champions of equal justice. We understand many domestic violence charges result from honest misunderstandings that get blown out of proportion. No matter your circumstances, we will help you navigate each step of the legal process and build the strong defense you deserve.
Domestic Violence In Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, domestic violence refers to any act of violence or abuse that takes place in a domestic setting. A conviction in a domestic violence case can result in years of jail time and fines of up to $50,000. A person convicted of domestic violence also may lose their right to possess firearms or see their children.
Is Domestic Violence The Same As Domestic Abuse?
Domestic violence is also called “domestic abuse” or “intimate partner violence” (in situations where the act occurs between spouses or romantic partners). It is important to understand that domestic violence is not a criminal offense in and of itself: It “enhances” assault and/or battery charges.
Contact our firm online or call 414-567-5631 to schedule a free initial consultation at our Milwaukee office. We provide legal services in English and Hmong.
Penalties For Domestic Violence Charges In Wisconsin
When a law enforcement officer investigates a domestic disturbance, they are obligated to make an arrest if a victim is physically injured, if they believe abuse will continue if an arrest is not made, or if they believe someone is the primary aggressor in a relationship. If you are arrested, you will automatically be placed under a “no-contact order.” This means you cannot contact or go near the alleged victim during the 72-hour period after your arrest, so you will not be able to immediately return home if you and the alleged victim live together.
The penalties in a domestic violence case will depend on the severity of the harm sustained by the victim and the perpetrator’s intentions. Generally, the more serious the victim’s injuries, the more serious the charges. Charges in Wisconsin can range from non-criminal citations to felonies. Other factors – including prior convictions and the use of weapons – may influence how someone is charged.
Domestic violence punishments in Wisconsin can include:
- Up to 15 years of imprisonment
- Up to $50,000 in fines
- Being subject to the terms of a final restraining order
- Loss of firearm rights
How Restraining Orders Work In Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, victims of domestic violence have the right to request a temporary restraining order after an arrest has been made. If the victim exercises this right, you will be served a copy of their request and the temporary order. Temporary restraining orders will typically remain in effect until a court hearing can be scheduled. At this hearing, the victim will need to present evidence that shows “beyond a reasonable doubt” that they will likely face additional harm if a final restraining order is not granted. If a final restraining order takes effect, you will most likely need to surrender all of your firearms.
What Happens If You Violate A Restraining Order?
Violating a temporary or final restraining order is a crime in Wisconsin. You will likely face additional criminal charges (in addition to domestic violence and assault/battery charges) if you violate any term of the order. Our Milwaukee domestic violence lawyer can fervently represent you in restraining order hearings.
Contact A Domestic Violence Lawyer Today
Even allegations of domestic violence can do substantial damage to your reputation, so it is in your best interest to do everything you can to defend yourself when you are facing these charges. At Lee Law Firm, LLC, we are committed to protecting your rights, and we will walk you through your legal options. We understand how these cases are decided in Wisconsin and will leverage all of our resources to provide results-oriented representation.
Contact Lee Law Firm, LLC, today to get started on your defense.