Domestic violence charges have the power to rip a family apart and put a person behind bars for years, which is why if you are currently facing these charges, you need a knowledgeable Memphis domestic violence defense lawyer on your side. Contact Ballin, Ballin & Fishman, PC today.

Why You Need a Memphis Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Tennessee courts take domestic violence charges very seriously, which is why you should as well. The best defense against a domestic violence charge is a knowledgeable Memphis criminal defense lawyer.

How Tennessee Law Defines Domestic Violence

Domestic violence in Tennessee is defined as committing an act of domestic assault on a current or former spouse, roommate, dating or sexual partner, or anyone related by blood, adoption, or marriage. An act of assault between parent and child is also considered an act of domestic violence. Tennessee law also includes adults or minors who currently or formerly lived together, as well as the adult or minor children of anyone in these categories, within its definition of a “domestic abuse victim.”

Assault is defined as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person, or intentionally or knowingly causing another person to reasonably fear imminent bodily injury. An act of physical contact that a reasonable person would consider extremely offensive or provocative is also considered assault in Tennessee. You should understand that domestic violence can occur across all genders, races, and sexual orientations.

Potential Penalties for a Domestic Violence Conviction in Tennessee

If you are accused of domestic violence, the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense will determine the specific penalties you face. The consequences for various domestic assault and aggravated assault charges in Tennessee are as follows:

Class A misdemeanor domestic assault: Up to 11 months and 29 days of incarceration and a potential $15,000 fine.
Class B misdemeanor domestic assault: Up to six months of incarceration and a potential $500 fine. Courts may also impose an additional ability-to-pay-based fine of up to $225.
Class C felony aggravated assault: Between three and 15 years of incarceration and a potential fine of up to $15,000.
Class D felony aggravated assault: Between two and 12 years of incarceration and a potential fine of up to $15,000.

You should also note that if you’ve been convicted of an act of domestic violence in the past and this is your second or subsequent charge, you can expect to face additional penalties, including mandatory minimum jail terms and higher mandatory fines set by statute, along with possible restitution to the victim. Any degree of domestic assault requires the attention of an experienced Memphis domestic violence defense lawyer.

Speak With an Experienced Memphis Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Domestic violence charges can alter your life forever. Don’t make the mistake of hiring just any attorney to represent you at this critical time. Our firm is here to help. Contact Ballin, Ballin, & Fishman, PC today to schedule your free initial consultation with our aggressive legal team.