Domestic Violence And Felony Assault Defense In Winston-Salem

Sometimes, even the most level-headed person can be overcome with emotion. When tensions run high, things can quickly escalate, and before you know it, you may find yourself facing domestic violence or felony assault charges. A conviction on these charges can result in severe punishments, which is why it is essential to get help from a skilled criminal defense lawyer.

At The Law Offices of Karen D. Gerber, PLLC in Winston-Salem, I understand how to mount an effective defense against alleged crimes of violence.

We Provide Legal Counsel For All Assault Cases

I have provided legal defense for people who have been charged with felony assault stemming from all types of situations, including:

• Bar fights
• Road rage
• Incidents involving a weapon
• Revenge attacks

Even if an eyewitness can positively identify you, there are still defenses that may be raised. However, it is important that you seek legal help as soon as possible to ensure that your rights remain protected.

Allegations Of Domestic Abuse Can Have Far-Reaching Consequences

Charges of domestic violence can impact every area of your life. If a family member even just alleges that you committed an act of violence against him or her, he or she may secure a restraining order that can prevent you from returning home or seeing your children, even before you have had a chance to plea your case in court.

A conviction for even a misdemeanor domestic abuse charge means that you will no longer be allowed to possess firearms. With this much at stake, you need help from someone who understands criminal defense.

North Carolina Domestic Violence Laws

In North Carolina, domestic violence offenses are the commission of certain acts against a person (or a child in their care or custody) by someone with whom they have or have had a personal relationship. These acts include:

• Intentionally causing or attempting to cause bodily injury
• Placing the party, their family or household members in fear of imminent serious bodily injury or continued harassment, causing emotional distress
• Committing any act defined in G.S. 14-27.21 through G.S. 14-27.33, which includes various sexual offenses

A “personal relationship” under North Carolina law includes current or former spouses, persons of the opposite sex who live together or have lived together, parents and their children and persons who have a child in common.

Surrender Of Firearms In Domestic Violence Cases

Under North Carolina law, individuals subject to certain domestic violence protective orders or those convicted of certain domestic violence offenses are required to surrender their firearms and ammunition. The surrender requirements are detailed in the weapons offenses section of the North Carolina General Statutes.

Domestic Violence Conviction Penalties In North Carolina

In North Carolina, the potential penalties for domestic violence convictions vary depending on whether the offense is classified as a misdemeanor or felony. A misdemeanor domestic violence conviction can result in consequences such as fines and up to 150 days in jail. If the offense involves dangerous materials or a deadly weapon, felony charges are possible.

Both Class E and Class C felonies come with harsh consequences – potentially years of imprisonment.

What Are The Penalties For Violating A Protective Order?

Protective orders in North Carolina are issued to shield domestic violence victims from further abuse. These orders may include provisions that prevent the accused from contacting or even being within a specified distance of the victim.

Violating a protective order can result in penalties, including fines, additional jail time and other sanctions as determined by the court. Judges issue protective orders based on the evidence presented, and violations are taken seriously to help ensure the safety and well-being of victims.

Contact A Board-Certified Criminal Defense Specialist In North Carolina

I understand what it takes to build an effective defense against assault charges. Call 336-725-6611 or contact me online to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your case.

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