High-Stakes Criminal Defense
Aggressive Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Warren & Montgomery Counties
What Do I Do If I Am Charged With Domestic Violence?
If you are charged with domestic violence, immediately invoke your right to remain silent and request a lawyer. Do not answer questions, provide statements, or discuss the case with anyone other than your attorney—including family, friends, or on social media.
The immediate steps to protect your freedom and legal rights include the following:
1. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
- Say nothing: Explicitly tell law enforcement, "I want to speak to a lawyer and I am invoking my right to remain silent."
- No explanations: Do not attempt to "clear things up" or tell your side of the story without an attorney present. Innocent remarks can be manipulated and used against you.
- No recorded calls: Be aware that all calls from jail (except those to your attorney) are recorded. Do not discuss the facts of your case over jail phones or text messages.
2. Secure Legal Representation
- Get a criminal defense lawyer: Hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to advocate for you at your initial hearing and fight false allegations.
- Use a Public Defender: If you cannot afford a private lawyer, the court will appoint a public defender to ensure your rights are represented.
- Be transparent with your lawyer: Your conversations with your lawyer are protected by attorney-client privilege. Tell them every detail and fact you know so they can build an effective defense.
3. Strictly Follow All Protection Orders
- No contact means no contact: Do not text, call, email, or visit the alleged victim under any circumstances if a temporary protection order or no-contact order is in place.
- Do not use third parties: Asking a friend or family member to deliver a message to the alleged victim also violates a no-contact order. Violating these orders is a separate crime with severe consequences.
4. Locate Local Legal Support
If you are located in or near Franklin, Ohio, you fall under the jurisdiction of the Warren, Montgomery, or Butler County legal systems. To protect your rights and your freedom, you need highly-rated local criminal defense attorneys who understand the local courts.
The Law Office of David A. Chicarelli Co., LPA brings unparalleled authority to the courtroom. Our firm has extensive public service experience, including serving as a Judge and Magistrate in the Warren County Court, and serving as Law Director and Prosecutor for the City of Carlisle. We have evaluated cases from the judge's bench and prosecuted them on behalf of the state—we know exactly how the state builds its domestic violence cases against you.
Frequently Asked Questions about Domestic Violence in Ohio
What is the penalty for domestic violence in Ohio?
Domestic violence can range from a first-degree misdemeanor to a high-level felony depending on prior convictions and the severity of the offense. A conviction will also permanently strip you of your right to own a firearm under federal law.
How can an attorney defend against a domestic violence charge?
Defense strategies may include asserting self-defense, demonstrating that allegations are exaggerated or entirely false, or showing that the injuries were accidental.