The Bronx Domestic Violence Defense Attorney: Protecting Your Rights
If prosecutors accuse you of domestic violence, you may face criminal charges and a separate family court case. These allegations can have serious effects and the legal process may feel confusing.
At the Law Offices of Richman Hill & Associates, PLLC, our Bronx domestic violence defense attorneys help you understand what is happening at each stage of your case.
What “Domestic Violence” Means Under New York Law
In New York, domestic violence law is not a single, standalone crime but a statutory framework across both civil and criminal courts. It governs specific offenses committed between family members or intimate partners. They can involve the following:
- Criminal court case: A prosecutor files penal law charges that may result in a criminal record, probation or jail time.
- Family court family offense petition: The alleged victim files a civil petition that may seek an order of protection without criminal penalties.
The same incident may result in criminal charges and a separate family court petition for an order of protection. Each case follows its own rules and deadlines, so knowing which proceedings apply can help you prepare.
Common Domestic Violence-Related Charges In New York
The New York Penal Law covers several offenses that may arise in domestic violence cases. Common charges in the state include:
- Assault (Penal Law Article 120, first through third degree): Causing physical or serious physical injury, with the degree based on the harm claimed and any weapon involved
- Harassment (Penal Law Article 240, first or second degree) and aggravated harassment: Using conduct, threats or messages meant to harass, annoy, threaten or alarm another person, even without physical contact
- Menacing (Penal Law 120.15, first through third degree): Causing another person to fear death or physical injury through threats or other conduct
- Stalking (first through fourth degree): Making repeated unwanted contact that causes fear or distress
- Criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation/strangulation: Blocking another person’s breathing or blood flow
- Criminal mischief: Damaging another person’s property, with the degree based on the circumstances
- Endangering the welfare of a child: Acting in a way that could harm a child’s physical, mental or moral welfare
- Sexual abuse or forcible touching: Engaging in unwanted sexual contact or intentional sexual touching without consent
The charge and its degree affect the possible penalties and defense options in your case.
How We Approach Your Defense
Our attorneys have more than 30 years of combined experience in Bronx, Westchester, Rockland, Orange and New York City courts, in both state and federal cases. We listen to your side of the story before developing a defense strategy because we understand that every case is different. Your case may involve a first arrest or an existing order of protection. We work to protect your rights in both courts.
Speak With A Bronx Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Today
If you or someone you love faces domestic violence charges in the Bronx, contact theLaw Offices of Richman Hill & Associates, PLLC to discuss your situation with a criminal defense lawyer. Call us at 929-730-7698 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation.