What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is a scourge that can tear apart families and destroy lives. Massachusetts defines domestic violence as “any criminal act that involves physical, sexual, or psychological abuse within an intimate or family relationship.” This encompasses far more than just physical violence and includes:

• Assault and battery
• Assault and battery with a dangerous weapon
• Stalking
• Witness intimidation
• Kidnapping
• Sexual abuse
• Psychological abuse
• Verbal threats

Massachusetts takes domestic violence very seriously, and has enacted strict laws intended to protect the innocent and defenseless.

The Downside of Laws Intended to Protect

Unfortunately, it can be very difficult to discern the difference between domestic violence and self-defense, or an argument in which things said impulsively are interpreted as real threats. And because the laws are written broadly enough to protect victims in a wide variety of circumstances, they often catch in their net people who have been falsely accused and those who have made a momentary mistake.

For instance, picture a couple having a verbal argument. If one spouse blocks the other from exiting the room, and grabs the cell phone out of the other spouse’s hand, that person could be charged with both kidnapping and witness intimidation.

Consequences for the Accused

No matter what led to you being charged with domestic violence, the consequences are real and serious, including:

• jail or prison time
• court costs and fines
• loss of employment or inability to find new employment
• negative impact in a divorce or custody case
• damage to your reputation in the community
• damage to existing or future relationships

Even if the charges against you are dismissed, they will remain on your record. That is why you must have an attorney who will fiercely defend you and help to restore your good name. Contact Boston domestic violence defense attorney Henry Fasoldt today to discuss your options for defeating charges of domestic violence.