Cleveland Domestic Violence Attorney

Ohio Domestic Violence Laws

At HMW Law, we understand that accusations of domestic violence and related criminal offenses can be damaging to your personal and professional life. The goal of our Cleveland domestic violence attorneys is to take the time to hear your side of the story and present a comprehensive and effective case in your defense. Our firm has been recognized by numerous reputable and respected organizations for the quality of our legal advocacy for the accused and we are ready to fight for you.

Understanding Your Domestic Violence Charges in Ohio

Domestic violence refers to a pattern of abusive behaviors in an intimate relationship where one partner seeks to gain and maintain power and control over the other. This abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial in nature. It occurs within various types of relationships, including married couples, cohabiting partners, dating couples, or family members (e.g. children, parents, siblings, and other relatives).

Common types of domestic violence offenses in Ohio include:

• Physical Abuse: Inflicting bodily harm, such as hitting, slapping, punching, kicking, or any other form of physical violence.
• Emotional/Psychological Abuse: This includes behaviors intended to control, manipulate, or degrade the victim emotionally. It may involve threats, intimidation, humiliation, or isolation.
• Sexual Abuse: Involving any non-consensual sexual activity or coercion within an intimate relationship.
• Financial Abuse: Controlling or exploiting the victim’s financial resources, limiting their access to money, or sabotaging their economic independence.
• Stalking: Repeatedly following, monitoring, or harassing the victim, causing them to fear for their safety or the safety of others.
• Cyberstalking/Online Harassment: Using technology to harass, threaten, or intimidate the victim through electronic communication or social media.
• Verbal Abuse: Employing offensive language, name-calling, or constant criticism to demean and control the victim.
• Property Damage: Intentionally damaging or destroying the victim’s belongings or property.

If you are convicted of a domestic violence charge, the consequences can include:

• Jail time
• Permanent criminal record (felony or misdemeanor)
• Child custody and visitation battles
• Anger management and other court-ordered treatment programs
• Restraining orders placed on you by your family
• Restrictions placed on you from entering your residence

Common Legal Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges

The first step to building a defense is to understand what you are up against. A legal defense is a strategy or argument presented by a defendant in response to criminal charges. The purpose of a legal defense is to challenge the prosecution’s case and provide reasons why the defendant should not be held criminally liable for the alleged offenses.