In the state of Massachusetts, as is true in most states, law enforcement officials take the crime of domestic violence extremely seriously. In suspected domestic violence cases they, along with prosecuting attorneys, work diligently to see that anyone guilty of domestic violence is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. This is because, according to data compiled by Jane Doe Inc. and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, there have been 250 domestic violence related homicides in the state of Massachusetts between 2003 and the end of 2011.
However, one of the main difficulties law enforcement has when investing domestic violence cases is that there are often no third party witnesses. It is one person's word against the other. To aid responding officers in their handling of domestic violence cases, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security has issued detailed Domestic Violence Law Enforcement Guidelines. Despite this fact, domestic violence cases are not black and white. Should your case go before a judge, the judge will determine the penalties based on a variety of factors including whether or not previous charges were filed, how violent the abuse was, how long the abuse has continued, the nature of the violent acts, your relationship to the victim, and more.
If you have been accused of, or arrested for, domestic violence in the Quincy, MA area, I advise you to consult with a skilled criminal defense attorney at Flanagan & Associates as soon as possible. Time is of the essence in such cases and having a knowledgeable attorney representing your best interests is vital. Over the years, I have amassed extensive experience defending clients in all manner of criminal cases, including those involving domestic violence. I am committed to my clients and will work diligently to protect your rights and preserve your reputation.
Make no mistake, domestic violence charges can be extremely serious and a conviction can have a permanent impact on your family, your freedom and your future. Contact a Quincy criminal defense lawyer at my firm today so I can immediately begin a review of the charges against you.