If you’ve been physically, sexually, emotionally, or economically abused by a family member or an intimate partner, you can take steps now to protect yourself. To learn how to take effective legal action against your abuser, start by consulting with a domestic violence lawyer. Below are answers to common questions asked about domestic violence lawsuits.

What You Should Know About Domestic Violence Suits

1. What resources are available to victims of domestic violence?

New York has a 24-hour NYS Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline that victims, friends, and family members can call when they need help for domestic violence. They can access a variety of services, like supportive counseling and crisis intervention. Aside from this, they can receive help through their local police, domestic violence programs, family court, victim assistance programs, civil legal services, and their department of social services. 

2. Who can be a victim of domestic violence?

Any individual can be a victim of domestic violence, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, education, or socioeconomic status. While the majority of victims in New York are women and children, men may also suffer from such abuse by their relatives or partners.

3. What are some possible defenses for domestic violence charges?

If you decide to take legal action against your abuser, they may choose one of several different defenses. They may claim that your accusations are false. Your abuser may claim they attacked you in self-defense or due to mental illness. They could say that your injuries were accidental or even self-inflicted.

To win a case against them, you’ll have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that they did indeed abuse you. As such, it’s crucial to seek the services of an expert domestic violence lawyer who can gather witnesses, help you collect evidence, or tell you whether you have a strong case.

4. What penalties do offenders face?

For misdemeanor domestic violence charges, individuals may serve jail time for 15 days to a year and pay up to $1,000 in fines. If someone is facing B, C, D, or E felony charges, they could face between 4 and 25 years in prison and a fine between $5,000 and $30,000. A Class A felony can lead to life imprisonment.

Larry R. Koss Law Firm in Brockport, NY, can provide you with high-quality legal guidance and aggressive representation to help you overcome your situation. For the past 40 years, Larry has helped clients in Monroe, Orleans, Niagara, and Genesee with cases involving alcohol and drugs, traffic infractions, and assault, among others. You can be confident you’re in capable hands whether you need a domestic violence lawyer, DWI defense attorney, or a criminal defense lawyer. Call him today at (585) 637-3961 to schedule a free consultation or learn more about his services online.