Wesley Chapel Domestic Violence Lawyer

Wesley Chapel Domestic Violence Attorney

If you’ve been a victim of domestic violence, it’s important to have a Wesley Chapel domestic violence lawyer on your side to offer support throughout the legal process and get you the justice you deserve. The experienced attorneys at Lehnhardt Price Family Law provide compassionate Wesley Chapel family lawyer and legal services designed to protect your rights and ensure your safety.

Domestic Violence in North Carolina

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in a relationship that one partner uses to gain or maintain control over another person. This can include forms of physical violence, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, financial control, and psychological manipulation.

Unfortunately, domestic violence cases are on the rise. In fact, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation reported a 17.4% increase in domestic abuse victims between 2022 and 2023.

Domestic violence is not limited to physical harm, either. It can also involve threats of harm, verbal assault, coercive behavior, and other forms of abuse meant to harass, control or intimidate the victim. It is not confined to romantic relationships, occurring between family members and roommates, as well.

What to Do if You Have Been a Victim of Domestic Violence

If you have been a victim of domestic violence in Wesley Chapel, taking the right legal steps is important to protect your rights. It’s also imperative that you prioritize your safety.

• Ensure your safety: Always call 911 if you are in immediate danger. Law enforcement can remove the abuser from the home and provide protection. If necessary, seek shelter in a safe location or domestic violence shelter. Shelters and domestic violence resources nearest to Wesley Chapel include Turning Point, North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Compass Center, Safe Alliance, and Family Violence Prevention Center.
• Obtain a protective order: A protective order, or restraining order, is a legal tool that can provide immediate relief to victims of domestic violence by enforcing a halt to contact between you and the abuser. This prevents them from entering your home, workplace, or any other important location where you may cross paths. This can also include provisions for child custody and visitation. Our team at Lehnhardt Price Family Law can help you file a restraining order.
• Document evidence of the abuse: It’s important to document any evidence of abuse, which can include medical records, injuries, police reports, and any communication, such as text messages, emails, or other communications. Keeping a record of these incidents can help you present a solid case against your abuser.
• Pursue criminal charges against the abuser: A domestic violence lawyer can help guide you through the process of pressing criminal charges due to assault, battery, or other violent offenses. A criminal conviction can further protect you and deter the abuser from continuing any harmful behavior.

How Can a Wesley Chapel Domestic Violence Lawyer Help?

Seeking legal help quickly after domestic violence is crucial to protecting your rights, taking legal action to protect yourself, and ensuring the abuser is held accountable for their actions.

The team at Lehnhardt Price Family Law can help you file a protective order, or restraining order, to prevent the abuser from contacting you, coming near your home or workplace, and providing custody arrangements for your family, if necessary. If you’re married, we can assist you in filing for divorce, separation, or custody arrangements while ensuring that your safety and the safety of your children remain a top priority.

Since evidence plays a strong role in convicting your abuser, we help you gather and present available evidence to support your case. This might include police reports, witness testimonies, medical records, and photographs of injuries. While working on your case, we work closely with you to ensure you understand the legal process and what rights you have throughout. We understand the emotional toll of domestic violence and are committed to offering compassionate guidance and support to provide a safe space to seek justice.

FAQs About Wesley Chapel Domestic Violence Law

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost for a Domestic Violence Case?

The cost of hiring a lawyer for a domestic violence case varies based on the complexity of the case, the attorney’s overall experience with domestic violence cases, and the location. Additional costs may include expert witness fees, court fees, and investigation expenses. Consult with your lawyer upfront about their fee schedule and process to get a better understanding of expected costs.

What Is the New Domestic Violence Law in NC?

The newest domestic violence law in NC enacted through Senate Bill 20 took effect in 2023 and created a new misdemeanor crime for domestic violence. Under this statute, an individual is charged with a class A1 misdemeanor if they use or attempt to use physical force or threaten the use of a deadly weapon and if the person committing the act has a relationship with the victim. This law was created to more closely align with federal restrictions.

Can Criminal Domestic Violence Charges Be Dropped in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, domestic violence charges may be dropped at the victim’s request; however, unlike in a civil case, in a criminal matter, the alleged victim is not a party to the case, but rather a witness for the State of North Carolina. Once the charge is filed, the decision to drop the charges lies with the prosecutor (or district attorney). Defendants may negotiate for a plea deal or seek dismissal through legal defenses. For the strongest chance of having a case dismissed, you need the help of an experienced Wesley Chapel domestic violence lawyer.

Can You Sue for Emotional Abuse in North Carolina?

Individuals in North Carolina can sue for emotional abuse. For the case to be successful, there must be substantial proof that the defendant engaged in extreme conduct that caused severe emotional distress. Emotional abuse cases can be particularly difficult to prove, requiring medical and psychological evidence. It’s important to have a skilled lawyer on your side to help you navigate the legal process and collect sufficient evidence.

Wesley Chapel Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic violence can have serious and lasting effects on its victims. If you or someone you love has experienced domestic violence in Wesley Chapel, reach out to the experienced team at Lehnhardt Price Family Law. Through a client-centered approach and aggressive advocacy, we fight to ensure you can escape the cycle of abuse and begin a new chapter in your life.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation so we can begin building your case and working toward recovery.