All too often, domestic disputes result in allegations of physical violence, sometime true, sometime fabricated. There also may be allegations of sexual abuse of the couple's children -- sometimes true, sometimes fabricated -- by one partner seeking an advantage in divorce or child custody proceedings. Vindictive spouses may use domestic violence or abuse charges against you in order to damage your reputation and gain leverage for child or spousal support obligations, and related marital property disputes.

Domestic violence and abuse charges may involve:

• Threats and Intimidation
• Pinching
• Punching
• Biting
• Kicking
• Slapping
• Shoving
• Hitting
• Hair pulling
• Other Harmful Physical Contact
• Financial Abuse
• Forced Sexual Contact
• Unwanted Touching
• Child Abuse or Child Endangerment
• Criminal Trespass
• Harassment
• Reckless Endangerment
• Stalking
• Kidnapping
• False Imprisonment.

If the alleged victim in a domestic violence or abuse case requests that the charges be dropped, the case will not be automatically dismissed. Once law enforcement officials arrest you for domestic violence or abuse, it is up to the criminal prosecutor to decide whether to press charges, even if the alleged victim recants the charges. If a prosecutor has decided to file domestic violence or abuse charges against you, very serious consequences can result, even if you are completely innocent.

Anchor Criminal Defense may be able to prevent any charges being filed against you, if you contact us immediately after you have been arrested. If charges are filed against you, we may be able to help you to avoid jail time through probation, counseling and community service. If jail time is required, we may be able to substantially reduce your time behind bars.

If you or someone you know is being investigated, arrested or prosecuted for domestic violence or abuse, call Anchor Criminal Defense for a free consultation.