Domestic violence accusations can change your life in an instant. Even if you’re innocent, being charged can damage your reputation, cost you custody rights, and impact your career. That’s why it’s critical to have a strong legal advocate by your side from the beginning.
At Erlina Perez Law Firm, we understand the emotional weight and legal complexity of these cases. Here are seven compelling reasons why you should never face a DV charge without an experienced attorney.
1. Understanding What Counts as DV
Many people ask, “what is domestic violence” under New Jersey law? It’s more than just physical abuse. According to the state’s definition, it includes acts like harassment, stalking, verbal threats, emotional abuse, and more.
Charges can stem from a single argument, a misunderstood text, or even a third-party complaint. Without legal guidance, you might not fully understand how serious your situation is.
2. You Could Be Issued a Restraining Order Immediately
Once a complaint is filed, the court can issue a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) without hearing your side. That means you may be forced out of your home, lose access to your children, and be barred from contacting the other party, sometimes within hours.
Only a domestic violence lawyer can quickly intervene to challenge a TRO before it becomes permanent. The stakes are too high to wait or hope things will resolve on their own.
3. Protecting Your Parental Rights During Divorce or Custody Battles
If you’re currently involved in a divorce or custody dispute, a DV charge can significantly complicate your case. Family courts in New Jersey take such allegations seriously and may restrict your parenting time or question your ability to provide a safe environment for your child.
These consequences can arise even before the criminal case is resolved. An experienced domestic violence defense attorney will work closely with your divorce lawyer to develop a coordinated legal strategy to protect your parental rights and legal interests.
4. The Legal System Is Not Built for You to Navigate Alone
Family court and criminal court have different rules, procedures, and deadlines. You might only have a few days between the charge and your court appearance. A DV defense attorney understands how these systems overlap and can act quickly to defend you.
5. False Allegations Can and Do Happen
Unfortunately, individuals searching for a domestic violence attorney near me are often facing false or exaggerated claims used as leverage during divorce or custody disputes. Even if no crime occurred, you may still be forced to defend yourself in court.
Having a skilled attorney on your side ensures that evidence is properly gathered, witnesses are questioned, and inconsistencies in the accuser’s story are brought to light.
6. Your Future Is on the Line
Convictions carry serious penalties: jail time, steep fines, probation, loss of gun rights, and immigration consequences for non-citizens. Even without a conviction, your record can follow you, affecting job opportunities and housing.
A domestic violence defense attorney can fight to get the charges reduced or dismissed entirely. If necessary, they’ll represent you in court to protect your rights and reputation.
7. You Deserve to Be Heard and Defended
In high-stress domestic situations, it’s easy for your side of the story to be overshadowed. You may feel like everyone assumes you’re guilty. But that doesn’t mean you don’t have a voice.
An experienced DV defense attorney ensures the court hears your side, supported by facts, context, and legal precedent.
Don’t Risk Your Future and Get Help from a Domestic Violence Attorney Now
Being charged with DV is frightening, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Divorce & Family Lawyer Erlina Perez, we’ve helped countless individuals across Bergen County protect their rights and rebuild their lives.
Call (201) 880-7070 or contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation. Let’s talk about how to protect your freedom, your family, and your future.