Little Rock Domestic Battery Lawyer

Little Rock Domestic Battery Attorney

Domestic battery offenses in Arkansas are extremely serious and come with life-altering penalties that can impact your civil rights, financial wellness, and future. If you are facing charges for domestic battery in Little Rock, it’s crucial to secure experienced legal representation as soon as possible. A Little Rock domestic battery lawyer from Lemley Law Partners can help you navigate the complex domestic violence legal landscape to push back against your charges.

At Lemley Law Partners, our empathetic and driven legal team has demonstrated a long history of successfully defending individuals in Little Rock and surrounding areas who have been charged with domestic battery, assault & battery, and other violent crimes. We leverage our detail-oriented investigation techniques and fierce advocacy to engineer and implement legally innovative strategies that protect both your future and your reputation. Whether you are facing felony defense or gun crime charges, our experienced attorneys are prepared to fight for you. We are ready to defend your rights today.

Understanding Domestic Battery Charges in Arkansas

Domestic battery crimes happen when an individual harms a household or family member. Under Arkansas law, domestic battery is categorized by degrees that depend on injury severity, whether aggravating factors were present, and other considerations.

Categories include:

• First-degree domestic battery (Ark. Code Ann. §5-26-303): This crime is classified as a Class B, Class A, or Class Y felony, and is the most serious type of domestic battery charge. An example of this charge is if a family member is severely injured by the use of a deadly weapon, or if someone is injured because of intent to seriously and permanently disfigure, amputate, or permanently disable.
• Second-degree domestic battery (Ark. Code Ann. §5-26-304): Second-degree domestic battery is classified as a Class C or Class B felony. It is applicable when the victim in question suffers from serious physical harm or if a weapon is involved.
• Third-degree domestic battery (Ark. Code Ann. §5-26-305): This is either a Class A misdemeanor or Class D felony charge that commonly involves inflicting minor injuries or conduct of a reckless nature.

Statistics on Domestic Violence and Aggravated Assault in Little Rock

The Little Rock Police Department reported 258 cases of aggravated assault in December 2023, with only 12 cases being cleared in that same period. Furthermore, there were a reported 6,815 aggravated assault cases that were reported in residences or homes from March 2020 to December 2023. Most domestic violence and aggravated assault charges in Little Rock are filed in the Pulaski County Circuit Court.

Consequences of a Domestic Battery Conviction

A conviction for domestic battery can have devastating consequences. Depending on the degree of the charge in question, individuals can face jail or prison time sentences ranging from months to years, as well as fines. Courts commonly use restraining orders in these cases, potentially putting limits on the defendant’s movement and activities.

A conviction for domestic battery can also cause a defendant to lose their right to possess or own a firearm. Domestic violence convictions can also make it more challenging to secure meaningful housing or employment opportunities in the future.

Defenses Against Domestic Battery Charges

If you are charged with domestic battery, you will want an aggressive defense. A seasoned attorney from Lemley Law Partners can scrutinize the details of your case to help you understand which one of the following defense strategies may be optimal for you:

• Self-defense: If you were defending yourself or someone else from being harmed, this may be a strong legal defense in a court of law.
• Lack of evidence: The prosecution needs to provide strong evidence that backs their claims. If the evidence is lacking or inconsistent, this could lead to a dismissal of charges.
• Mistaken identity: Depending on the case, a misinterpretation of what happened or a mistaken identity could lead to a wrongful accusation.

If you’re facing charges for domestic battery in Little Rock, we can launch an immediate review of your case, evaluating the evidence and charges you are facing. From negotiating with prosecutors to representing you in court, we are ready to do what it takes to protect your rights and fight for the optimal outcome.

FAQs

Q: What Should I Do If I Am Accused of Domestic Battery?

A: If you’ve been charged with domestic battery in Little Rock and are wondering whether it is a felony, it’s important to maintain a sense of calm and contact a skilled criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Do not attempt to contact the alleged victim, even if you believe that you can talk it out. Anything you say or do could potentially be used against you in a court of law.

Q: Can a Domestic Battery Charge Be Dropped?

A: Yes, domestic battery charges can be dropped. In Arkansas, an alleged victim can request to drop domestic battery charges; however, it is up to the discretion of the prosecution to make a final decision. A detail-oriented criminal defense lawyer can advocate on your behalf to get your case dismissed on the basis of factors like lack of evidence.

Q: What Are the Penalties for Domestic Battery in Arkansas?

A: The penalties for domestic battery in Arkansas vary depending on the degree of the crime, with first-degree domestic battery charges potentially coming with a life sentence in prison. On the other hand, third-degree domestic battery is a misdemeanor that can lead to up to one year in jail as well as fines. A skilled attorney can help you understand the potential penalties you may be facing.

Q: Will a Domestic Battery Conviction Affect My Gun Rights?

A: Yes, a domestic battery conviction can impact your gun rights. Under both Arkansas and federal law, you can lose your right to own or possess a firearm with a domestic battery conviction. Violation of this restriction can lead to further criminal charges that
result in incarceration and fines. A knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer can help you ensure compliance to avoid further charges.

Contact a Little Rock Domestic Battery Lawyer Today

If you are dealing with domestic battery charges in Little Rock or surrounding areas, it’s crucial to seek strong legal representation as soon as possible. A domestic battery conviction can have life-altering consequences, including a scarred reputation and future. Contact us today to schedule your consultation to take your first steps towards building a robust defense.