Domestic Violence

Experienced Michigan Domestic Violence Lawyer | Michigan Defense Law

In Michigan, domestic violence cases are taken very seriously, and the consequences can be severe. If you are facing domestic violence charges in Michigan, you need to take action immediately. It is important to view this situation as a serious matter that requires the assistance of a qualified Michigan criminal defense attorney

Domestic violence is considered a crime across the United States. For those who have been charged and convicted of domestic violence, there are severe legal consequences, including fines and jail time. The stigma of a domestic violence conviction can also follow someone for the rest of their life, ruining their reputation, their career, and their future.

If you have been accused of domestic violence, it is critical to get the assistance of an experienced Michigan domestic violence lawyer. Michigan law treats these charges harshly. You need the best possible defense for your case when you are facing domestic violence charges. 

For over two decades, Michigan Defense Law founding attorney Paul J. Tafelski and our skilled team of Michigan domestic violence lawyers have diligently protected the legal rights of those who have been charged with domestic abuse. 

Contact Michigan Defense Law Today to schedule a consultation with a skilled Michigan lawyer for domestic violence defense. We offer a free evaluation of your case.

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I’ve used Paul for a BAIID appeal hearing multiple times. He has been very professional is very knowledgeable in the laws applicable. I’ve used other attorneys in the past but have never had the satisfaction as I’ve had with Paul. Most attorneys will over promise but be hard to reach after the contract is signed. Despite the time of day or the day of the week, he has always immediately responded to me. In addition, his assistant Karen has always been incredibly helpful in making calls to the SOS on my behalf. Although he may not have all the answers immediately, his immediate reply has reassured me numerous times. Just knowing that he’s reachable allayed much of my anxiety. In the end, he went above and beyond to make sure everything worked out. I would gladly recommend him to friends and family without hesitation.

The Statistics of Domestic Violence in Michigan

The National Coalition of Domestic Violence reports that in Michigan alone, 36.1% of women and 25.8% of men will experience some form of intimate partner abuse in their lives. Consequently, law enforcement has cracked down on domestic violence in Michigan. 

But as experienced domestic violence lawyers in Michigan, we also know that many of these charges result from minor altercations where one partner has called the police in order to control the situation. Unfortunately, once law enforcement is involved, an arrest is usually made, and it is treated as a serious crime with equally serious consequences. Depending upon the facts of your case, we can often mount an effective defense or resolve the matter without a conviction being placed on your record. 

If you are facing violence charges in Michigan, it is important to contact a Michigan domestic violence lawyer who is experienced in the defense of domestic violence accusations. Domestic violence charges in Michigan are serious and can have severe consequences. A Michigan lawyer for criminal defense who has experience with aggravated domestic violence cases can help you navigate the Michigan legal system and protect your rights.

To schedule a free evaluation of your case with a top-rated Michigan defense lawyer and learn more about our legal services, contact us today at (248) 451-2200.

What is the Legal Definition of Michigan Domestic Violence?

Under Michigan Penal Code § 750.81, domestic violence is considered a form of assault and battery. Specifically, it concerns the assault and/or battery of people you have or had close or intimate relationships with, such as:

Assault is defined as placing someone in fear of harm. Consequently, if you have put someone in fear of harm, you could be accused of domestic violence even if you haven’t touched them. Battery occurs when the assault is carried out, and contact is made with the accuser. While most people assume that battery must be forceful, with the victim being injured, any unwanted contact can be seen as a battery in the eyes of the law. The legal definition is whether the touching was harmful or offensive. Therefore, many of these cases result from someone merely grabbing another person momentarily, shoving someone, or a single slap.  

In addition, Michigan Statutes § 400.1501 specifically broadens the definition of domestic violence. Someone may be charged with domestic violence if they:

If you are facing domestic violence charges in Michigan, it is important to find a law firm that has experience handling these types of cases. A qualified Michigan domestic violence lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights. At Michigan Defense Law, we have successfully defended many clients against domestic violence charges in Michigan.

At Michigan Defense Law, domestic assault lawyer Paul J. Tafelski and our team of skilled attorneys for criminal defense are ready to help you through the entire process. You don’t have to fight alone.

To schedule a free consultation with our lawyers regarding your charges, contact our firm now at (248) 451-2200.

I didn’t know much about the entire legal process so Paul was a great Lawyer for me. He took the time to explain everything without making me feel dumb. He fought for me and got me a great outcome for my case. He is a great guy that eased my stress about my case and I would recommend him to anyone. Thank you Paul!

Domestic Assault and Aggravated Domestic Assault in Michigan

Michigan considers domestic violence as a serious criminal offense that includes any type of assault against a spouse, a person with whom you share a child, someone with whom you have had a dating relationship, or someone who has lived or is currently living in the same household as you. MCL 750.81 makes domestic violence illegal in Michigan, and the punishment can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense.

If you are facing domestic violence charges in Michigan, don’t wait. Seek the legal representation of a skilled lawyer for criminal defense right away. 

Our team of Michigan defense lawyers may be able to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation regarding your charges.  We will work with you to develop a comprehensive defense strategy and fight for your rights. 

Domestic assault can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, with the penalty being determined by the number of previous offenses committed. For a first-time offense, you will typically face misdemeanor charges, with a potential sentence of up to 93 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. A second offense could also be treated as a misdemeanor, but the penalties will be more severe, with a maximum jail term of one year and/or a fine of up to $1,000. A third domestic assault offense is considered a felony, and you may face up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500. The sentence may also include probation, anger management counseling, or community service. Misdemeanor domestic assault cases are heard in the district court, while felony charges are heard first in the district court and then in the circuit court.

Aggravated domestic assault is a more severe offense than domestic assault and involves causing serious bodily harm to the victim. If you are charged with aggravated domestic assault, it means that the victim has sustained significant injuries that require immediate medical attention.

For a first-time misdemeanor offense of aggravated domestic assault, you could face a punishment of up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. However, a second offense of aggravated domestic assault is considered a felony, and you may face a maximum of five years in prison.

If you use a dangerous weapon to commit assault, attempt to cause significant bodily harm, or strangle/suffocate the victim, the charges will automatically be escalated to a felony, even if it is your first offense. These charges can result in prison sentences of up to ten years.

It is essential to note that a domestic violence charge can still be pursued even if the victim withdraws their complaint against you. In Michigan, prosecutors can proceed without the victim’s consent. Furthermore, a single prior offense is enough to elevate an aggravated domestic assault charge to a felony.

If you are facing domestic violence charges in Michigan, it is crucial to hire a Michigan domestic violence lawyer who is skilled in domestic violence defense. Domestic violence charges can be very serious and can result in severe consequences such as jail time, fines, and a criminal record. A Michigan criminal defense attorney who has experience handling aggravated domestic violence and assault cases can help you understand the charges you are facing and develop a strong defense strategy to protect your rights.

Contact Michigan Defense Law today to schedule a free consultation regarding your charges. 

Michigan Domestic Violence Attorneys Explain the Rights of a Defendant in a Domestic Violence Incident

One of the unfortunate aspects of domestic violence is that it is considered so dangerous and serious that, over the years, state governments have reduced some of the rights of the accused to protect the accuser. In Michigan, law enforcement officers can make arrests with no warrant as long as they have reasonable cause. In most cases, reasonable cause is based only on the testimony of the accuser. 

Consequently, when a partner can obtain an arrest with relative ease, innocent parties can get charged with domestic violence. When this happens, the person being accused has no choice but to follow the instructions of the officer and get the representation of a domestic violence lawyer as soon as possible. 

If you are in Grand Rapids or the surrounding area and need a Michigan domestic violence lawyer, search no further than Michigan Defense Law. Our experienced attorneys have successfully defended clients in a wide range of domestic violence cases, from simple assault to aggravated domestic violence charges. We understand the gravity of these charges and will work tirelessly to defend your rights and freedom.

At Michigan Defense Law, criminal lawyer Paul J. Tafelski and our team of experienced domestic assault attorneys have dedicated our careers to the skilled legal representation of those who have been charged with a crime.

Contact us at (248) 451-2200 for a no-cost consultation.

I didn’t know much about the entire legal process so Paul was a great Lawyer for me. He took the time to explain everything without making me feel dumb. He fought for me and got me a great outcome for my case. He is a great guy that eased my stress about my case and I would recommend him to anyone. Thank you Paul!

Domestic Violence, No-Contact Orders, and Personal Protection Orders

In most cases, once charges have been formally made, the court will issue a no-contact order. If you have been charged with domestic violence, this will prohibit you from having any contact with the accuser until you have been proven guilty or innocent. If you have children together, this order may allow further instruction for any exchange of the children. 

Your accuser may request a personal protection order from the court. This allows the accuser an enforcement measure even if no charges have yet been filed. A personal protection order may be sought if the accuser feels you may:

In order to obtain a personal protection order, your accuser must present enough evidence to prove that you are a threat. Once a personal protection order is issued, you will have 14 days to file a motion to modify or terminate it. The court will hear your case, where you and your Michigan defense lawyer can present your own evidence proving you are not a threat. 

Domestic violence charges can include a wide range of behaviors, such as physical violence, emotional abuse, and sexual assault. It is important to understand that domestic violence charges can be brought against anyone, regardless of gender, age, or relationship status.

Even when you feel the domestic violence charges are unfair or unfounded, you must obey these orders closely. Punishment for violation can be serious and can even involve jail time. This is not the time to take matters into your own hands. 

Founding attorney Paul J. Tafelski and our team of skilled domestic assault attorneys at Michigan Defence Law bring a comprehensive understanding of the ramifications of convictions combined with a practical approach to resolving cases with the best possible outcome. Call our experienced Michigan domestic violence lawyers to help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process if you have been accused of domestic violence.

If you are facing domestic violence charges in Michigan, it is important to take action immediately. Contact a Michigan domestic violence lawyer who can help you understand your rights and develop a strong defense strategy. With the right attorney on your side, you can fight back against domestic violence charges and protect your future.

To schedule a free consultation with criminal lawyer Paul J. Tafelski or any of the knowledgeable criminal attorneys at Michigan Defence Law, contact us today at (248) 451-2200

TopicDetails
No-Contact OrderOnce charges have been made, the court will issue a no-contact order that prohibits any contact with the accuser until the accused has been proven guilty or innocent. The order may provide further instructions for child exchange.
Personal Protection OrderThe accuser may request a personal protection order from the court, which allows them to obtain enforcement even if no charges have been filed yet. A personal protection order may be sought if the accuser feels that the accused may enter their home, assault them, threaten to injure or kill them, keep them from coming onto their property to take the children, take the children away from them if they have custody, own or purchase a firearm, come to their workplace, or obtain the address where they and their children are. The accuser must present enough evidence to prove that the accused is a threat. Once issued, the accused will have 14 days to file a motion to modify or terminate the order.

Why is it Important for Accused of Domestic Violence to be Represented by Legal Attorneys?

How Do Domestic Violence Attorneys Assist in Defending Restraining Orders?

How Can Lawyers Help Defend Clients in Protection Orders in Domestic Violence Cases?

What Are the Roles of an Attorney in Domestic Abuse Cases?

What Legal Services Can Domestic Violence Attorneys Provide?

How Can Domestic Violence Attorneys Help?

How Can a Domestic Violence Attorney Help in Cases of Abuse?

Why is Legal Counsel Essential for Domestic Violence Court Cases?

What Laws and Regulations Pertain to Spousal Abuse Cases, According to a Defense Lawyer?

How Do Defense Attorneys Handle Domestic Battery Cases?

What Strategies Can Defense Attorneys Use to Contest Protective Orders?

How Can Domestic Violence Attorneys Provide Legal Representation to an Accused of Domestic Abuse?

How Does a Defense Attorney Handle a Domestic Assault Case in Court Involving a Warrant?

Can a Domestic Violence Lawyer Assist with Assault Cases and Restraining Orders?

Can Lawyers Challenge Violence Protection Orders?

Which Law Firm Specializes in Handling Abuse Cases and Defending Against Restraining Order?

How Important is Legal Counsel from a Defense Attorney in Domestic Assault Cases?

Why is Legal Representation by Attorneys Crucial in Cases of Violence?

How Can a Lawyer Assist in Helping Accused of Restraining Orders in Cases of Violence?

What Laws are Pertinent in Domestic Assault Cases, and How Can a Defense Lawyer Help?

Which Law Firm Can Help with Warrants and Protection Orders?

How Can a Domestic Violence Attorney Assist in Defending Against Restraining Orders?

How Do Lawyers Assist in Appealing Against Protective Orders for Domestic Violence?

What Are the Roles and Responsibilities of Domestic Violence Attorneys?

What Services Do Violence Attorneys Offer?

What Does a Violence Attorney Handle?

How Do Domestic Violence Attorneys Help Clients Appeal Against Restraining Orders?

What Can Attorneys Do for Domestic Violence Cases?

How Are Domestic Violence Attorneys Essential for Those Represented in Such Cases?

How Can a Domestic Violence Attorney Assist with Legal Protection Orders?

How Do Domestic Violence Attorneys Assist in Restraining Violence Cases?

How Does a Domestic Violence Attorney Assist Individuals Represented in Cases of Abuse?

How Do Domestic Violence Attorneys Navigate the Domestic Violence Law on Behalf of Their Clients?

How Do Attorneys Handle Cases of Domestic Abuse?

How Can Lawyers Assist in Domestic Violence Cases?

What Are the Roles and Responsibilities of Domestic Violence Lawyers?

What Services Do Domestic Violence Attorneys Offer?

What Can Domestic Battery Lawyers Do for Their Clients?

What Services Do Domestic Abuse Attorneys Provide?

What Role Does a Domestic Violence Attorney Play?

What Are the Responsibilities of a Domestic Violence Attorney?

What Legal Services Do Domestic Violence Attorneys Provide?

What Are the Key Domestic Violence Laws?
How Does a Defense Domestic Violence Lawyer Represented an Accused?
What Roles Do Attorneys Play in Cases of Violence?
What Are the Functions of Attorneys in Domestic Violence Cases?

What is the role of a defense attorney in a domestic violence case?

How can a violence attorney help in cases of domestic abuse?

What does legal representation entail in cases of spousal abuse?

How can a defense lawyer help if a restraining order has been issued against my client?

What services does your law firm provide for clients accused of domestic battery?

How can a domestic violence attorney assist in dealing with protective orders?

What steps should be taken if a warrant has been issued in a domestic violence case?

How does legal counsel handle cases of domestic abuser defense?

How can domestic violence attorneys help manage multiple protection orders?

How can attorneys provide legal support to those accused of domestic violence?

How do violence attorneys approach cases involving domestic assault?

What strategies might a domestic violence attorney employ in domestic battery cases?

How are lawyers able to assist in navigating restraining orders?

How are clients represented in court by a domestic violence lawyer?

How can an attorney help if multiple protective orders have been issued?

How can legal assistance help in cases involving domestic battery accusations?

How do attorneys help with order of protection cases tied to domestic abuse?

What role does a violence attorney play in cases of domestic assault?

How does a domestic violence law influence the strategy of a defense attorney?

How can lawyers assist if accused of abuse in a domestic violence case?

What are the steps a violence attorney would take in a battery case?

How can a defense lawyer assist in cases of domestic battery?

How can restraining orders be contested by a violence attorney?

How does a domestic violence attorney approach cases with multiple protection orders?

How can legal counsel help if one is labeled a domestic abuser?

What strategies can a defense attorney employ when restraining orders are involved in a domestic violence case?

How can a domestic violence attorney provide assistance in cases of domestic battery?

How can lawyers provide legal support when dealing with violence and abuse accusations?

How can a defense attorney help in a case of domestic assault?

How can domestic violence attorneys help with restraining orders in domestic abuse cases?

In what way can a violence attorney assist in domestic battery cases?

How can attorneys provide legal support for those facing abuse charges?

How can domestic violence lawyers assist in cases involving protection orders?

How can defense attorneys help in navigating abuse and assault charges in a domestic violence case?

How can lawyers help a client who is represented in a domestic violence case involving restraining orders?

As a defense attorney, how do you approach cases of domestic abuse?

What law or laws apply to domestic assault cases in our jurisdiction?

Can a lawyer provide legal representation for both parties in a domestic violence case?

How many attorneys in your law firm specialize in domestic battery cases?

Can you explain the process of obtaining a restraining order or an order of protection?

How do lawyers typically handle defense in assault cases within family settings?

What are the typical consequences in court for a proven domestic abuser?

How does your role as a defense lawyer differ when dealing with protection orders versus restraining orders?

What role does a warrant play in domestic abuse cases?

How do defense attorneys provide legal counsel to those accused of spousal abuse?

What are the typical defenses used by lawyers in cases of domestic assault?

How does the law handle protective orders in cases of intimate partner violence?

As a defense attorney, how do you navigate cases involving family abuse or family assault?

What is the role of a family violence lawyer in court proceedings?

Can you explain the connection between family law and domestic violence cases?

How do attorneys approach legal representation in intimate partner violence cases?

Can a lawyer help in lifting a restraining order or order of protection?

How can legal counsel help someone falsely accused of domestic violence?

What is the process for a defense attorney to challenge protective orders in court?

How do attorneys in your law firm handle cases of family violence?

What is the role of a family violence lawyer when dealing with protection orders?

How can a lawyer help in cases of family assault?

Can attorneys help in getting a warrant lifted in a domestic assault case?

How do lawyers deal with false accusations of spousal abuse in court?

What is the role of defense attorneys in domestic battery cases?

How can a defense attorney provide legal counsel in cases involving intimate partner violence?

How do attorneys in a law firm approach legal representation in cases of family violence?

How does family law play a role in cases of domestic violence?

What are the typical law or laws that apply in cases of intimate partner abuse?

What is the role of a domestic violence lawyer in a domestic abuse case?

How do defense attorneys handle domestic battery charges?

What is the process for obtaining an order of protection against a domestic abuser?

How can a domestic violence lawyer help a client accused of spousal abuse?

What are the legal implications of violating restraining orders in a domestic abuse case?

How can law attorneys assist in cases of family violence?

What does family law say about domestic assault and battery?

What is the role of domestic abuse attorneys in dealing with abuse allegations?

How do domestic battery lawyers defend against charges of domestic battery?

How do lawyers address the issue of intimate partner violence in the court of law?

How does the law treat family assault cases and what role do attorneys play in such scenarios?

In what ways can an attorney provide legal defense for alleged domestic abusers?

How do domestic violence lawyers interpret and apply protective orders in domestic violence cases?

What strategies do defense attorneys typically use in domestic assault cases?

How can a domestic abuse accused protect their rights with the help of lawyers?

How do family violence lawyers approach the defense in a case of alleged family abuse?

How do lawyers handle the delicate issue of intimate partner violence in the law courts?

How can domestic violence lawyers provide aid in cases involving protective orders?

How do law attorneys navigate the complexities of domestic battery charges?

What role does a family violence lawyer play in domestic cases involving accusations of violence and assault?

How can domestic violence attorneys assist in cases involving accusations of domestic violence?

How do lawyers approach domestic battery cases where an order of protection is involved?

What is the procedure for a domestic abuser to challenge a restraining order with the help of a lawyer?

How can attorneys help in situations of intimate partner disputes involving domestic abuse?

What are the legal considerations for lawyers when dealing with family assault cases?

How do domestic abuse attorneys prepare a defense strategy for domestic battery allegations?

How do defense attorneys address the issue of family abuse in domestic violence cases?

What is the role of a family law attorney in domestic assault cases?

How do domestic violence lawyers interpret the law in cases of intimate partner violence?

What legal guidance can domestic battery lawyers provide to an accused domestic abuser?

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I wanted to say thank you for representing me this week. I could not be happier with the outcome. I truly realize how significant the impact of my situation is going to be the rest of my life. People make mistakes but people do change. You were a great supporter, open, candid and very honest. I felt like you really cared about the outcome of my case. I will gladly pass your name along to anyone I know who is seeking legal assistance for a DUI.

Getting the Skilled Legal Defense of a Michigan Domestic Violence Lawyer

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There are often many defenses available to your domestic violence charges. Your lawyer may demonstrate that you acted in self-defense. In the case of a false accusation, domestic assault lawyer Paul J. Tafelski and the experienced domestic violence attorneys at Michigan Defense Law will demonstrate why the accusations are false and the motivations behind them. As in any type of criminal case, the prosecutor must prove that you are guilty of the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. Any inconsistencies or gaps in testimony can create doubt and enable you to get a favorable verdict.

If you are facing domestic violence charges in Michigan, it is important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. A Michigan domestic violence lawyer can help you understand your rights and options. Domestic violence cases can be complex and emotionally charged, but a skilled attorney can help you achieve the best possible outcome.

A domestic violence conviction can have a significant impact on your reputation, your career, and even your freedom. Don’t leave your case up to chance. Criminal defense attorney Paul J. Tafelski and our team of skilled criminal lawyers at Michigan Defense Law are ready to help.

To schedule a no-cost, confidential consultation, contact us via our website or via phone at (248) 451-2200.

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