Paul,
Thank you for guiding me through one of the worst events of my life. I hope I never see you again. (I mean that as nicely as possible!)
- Ms. G., OWI Case
Welcome
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Recent Successes and Testimonials
Read More
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Recent Successes and Testimonials
Read MorePaul’s hard work at trial showed my ex-girlfriend lied and saved me from prison.
- Mr. G.B., Oakland County Felonious Assault
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Recent Successes and Testimonials
Read MoreI was arrested for drunk driving and possession of a controlled substance (Vicodin). Paul worked hard on the case and kept the felony off my record and got the drunk driving case reduced so that I kept my driver’s license and my job. He really cared about helping me. - J.T., Wayne County
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Recent Successes and Testimonials
Read MoreMy son was charged with two serious felonies for home invasion. Paul worked long and hard on the case and was able to negotiate a deal so that all of the charges were dismissed after my son completed probation. He is now in college without a criminal record.
- Mr. T., Oakland County
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Recent Successes and Testimonials
Read MoreFor more testimonials, please click to review our Testimonials page.
domestic violence lawyers
Welcome to the Domestic Violence webpage for Paul J. Tafelski, Criminal Defense Attorney. The following information is presented to help people understand the seriousness of domestic violence and the legal ramifications if convicted. If you have been accused of a domestic violence related crime, the best advice is to immediately retain an experienced criminal defense attorney. We have successfully represented many clients charged with domestic violence and other criminal offenses in Detroit, Troy, Rochester Hills, Wayne County, Oakland County, Macomb County and throughout Michigan.
We are familiar with the court system and legal challenges that my clients face. In addition to the serious legal implications in domestic violence cases, there is a social stigma that often follows the accused for the rest of their lives. There are severe penalties if convicted of assault, harassment, stalking, malicious mischief, violation of a personal protection order, or other domestic violence crimes. You could be sentenced to jail or prison, receive large fines, court costs, community service and mandated counseling. The prosecuting attorneys are in this to win and know the rules. Who will fight for you in the justice system? We will. Our domestic violence lawyers can help to ensure that you receive the fair treatment that is your right under the law.
When spouses, intimate partners, or "dates" use physical violence, threats, emotional abuse, harassment, or stalking to control the behavior of their partners, they are committing domestic violence.
Domestic violence usually involves people who have an intimate relationship, are married, couples who live or have lived together, and couples with a common child. Often the police are called by one or both angry parties. Sometimes they don't know who to believe so they simply arrest someone, usually the man. If you have been wrongly accused and intend on fighting to prove your innocence you need to act immediately upon being charged. It is critical to preserve all possible evidence such as 911 tapes, police dispatch tapes, etc. before that information is destroyed. Very often the difference between being found Not Guilty and being convicted is a single piece of evidence that discredits an accuser. We work hard to build your case and protect your rights. If you have been charged with a form of domestic violence contact our criminal lawyers immediately.
While domestic violence is one of the most underreported crimes, it is also one of the most FALSELY reported.
While domestic violence is one of the most underreported crimes, it is also one of the most FALSELY reported. Many different situations lead to accusations and arrest, however there are strategies to prevent the incident from becoming part of a person's record, even if convicted. It takes a domestic violence lawyer who understands the laws and the system to exploit the strengths and weaknesses in your case. Whether you have been falsely accused, or need legal expertise to help ensure your rights to a fair trial, we have the experience and resources to help.
During our initial consultation, we will discuss the charge, the corresponding laws and the penalties you face if convicted of the crime. Working within the system, we will document critical details and request that evidence (such as 911 tapes, police dispatch tapes, or witness statements) be preserved and made available. This evidence can be used to identify inconsistencies in the accuser's version of events or to shed light on the reality of what occurred. Unfortunately, without an attorney to take these steps, evidence favorable to your case may be lost as a simple matter of procedure.
If this is a first domestic violence offense, it may be possible to negotiate an agreement that ensures there will be no conviction on your record. If a trial becomes necessary, we will be prepared to aggressively defend your rights and make certain that the jury hears both sides. If this is not a first offense, it is imperative that you receive the attention necessary to mount the best possible defense. Domestic Violence is a political issue. Judges and prosecutors are under tremendous pressure to be tough on people charged with these crimes even though they understand that the accuser often has unclean hands. A person charged with a second or subsequent domestic violence offense needs to mount an aggressive defense in order to protect themselves and receive fair treatment. By listening to the client, obtaining their version of the story and developing the facts, we develop the best possible defense strategies.
| Domestic Violence - First Offense - 93 day misdemeanor Second or subsequent offense Stalking Malicious use of mail or telecommunications Felonious Assault Assault with intent to murder Assault with intent to do great bodily harm - less than murder Contributing to the delinquency of a minor Obstruction of Justice Malicious destruction of property Trespassing |
MCLA 750.81(1) MCLA 750-81(3)-(4) MCLA 750.411h: MCLA 750.540 MCLA 750.82 MCLA 750.83 MCLA 750.84 MCLA 750.145 MCLA 750.122 MCLA 750.377a, 750.380 MCLA 750.547 |
A qualified domestic violence lawyer has the knowledge, resources and experience to effectively preserve evidence, prepare your case and ensure that your rights are protected. If you have been accused of any of these domestic violence crimes, do not hesitate to contact us now at 248-451-2200 or contact our domestic violence lawyers online. Do not jeopardize your future; these are serious charges with serious penalties if convicted. You need an experienced, legal expert to be your voice in a hostile environment - whether it's seeking a dismissal, negotiating a plea bargain, or defending you at trial.
Domestic Violence Resources
- Domestic Violence FAQs
- Macomb County District Courts
- Oakland County District Courts
- Wayne County District Courts
- Approved bail bondsmen for Oakland County, Michigan
- Approved bail bondsmen for Macomb County, Michigan
For the fastest response at night and on weekends please email me. I check my Blackberry frequently and will respond as soon as I see your message.



