Domestic Violence Charges in Michigan: What You Need to Know

January 23, 2013

Domestic violence is a crime under Michigan law. Yet, every family has the occasional spat, and it can be challenging for police to determine when a heated disagreement has crossed the line.

If you've been accused of domestic violence, you're likely awash with questions. A domestic violence defense attorney is the best resource to answer your questions and help fight charges, but even a brief overview of Michigan domestic violence law can be beneficial.

Anatomy of a domestic violence charge

Domestic violence is defined by Michigan law as abusive behavior used by one person to dominate or control another. This abusive behavior can come in many forms: physical, emotional, psychological, sexual and economic.

For a domestic violence crime, the offender must share a domestic relationship with the victim. Under Michigan law, you have a domestic relationship with someone if:

- That person is a spouse or former spouse

- You are in a dating relationship, or were formerly in a dating relationship

- You have a child in common

- You are residents or former residents of the same household

Many domestic violence cases center on alleged assaultive behavior, like pushing, shoving or slapping. However, there are other forms of abusive behavior that may lead to domestic violence accusations, including stalking, forcing someone to engage in sexual acts, locking someone out of the house (or not permitting someone to leave the house), making threats and even denying access to bank accounts or credit cards.

Punishment for domestic violence convictions in Michigan

A domestic violence conviction can have serious repercussions. Domestic violence is a misdemeanor in Michigan, punishable by up to 93 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.

The collateral consequences of a domestic violence conviction can be just as damaging as judicially imposed sanctions -- for example, damage to your reputation or losing your job or a professional license. If a Personal Protection Order is issued against you, your free movement can be restricted, you might be prohibited for contacting or communicating with an alleged victim or other family members, and you may even be stripped of your Second Amendment right to own a firearm.

Speak with a Michigan domestic violence defense attorney if you've been charged

If you have been accused of domestic violence in Michigan, a lot is at stake. Prosecutors in Michigan aggressively pursue domestic violence cases. You need an equally aggressive and dedicated advocate on your side to fight the charges against you and ensure that your rights are respected.

Talk to a Michigan domestic violence defense attorney today to begin building your case.

Article provided by Aggressive Criminal Defense Law Firm
Visit us at www.aggressivecriminaldefenselawfirm.com