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Shreveport Domestic Violence Lawyer

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Domestic Violence Attorney in Shreveport, LA

The state of Louisiana seeks to protect victims in matters of domestic violence. Victims may seek orders of protection from the court to keep abusers at bay. There are also criminal penalties for perpetrators of domestic abuse battery. The consequences of a domestic violence conviction can include steep fines, jail time, and the loss of gun rights, among other long-term repercussions. If you face criminal charges for domestic violence in Shreveport, don’t hesitate to contact a domestic violence defense lawyer.

Understanding Domestic Violence in Shreveport

Domestic abuse battery occurs between household members when one household member intentionally uses force or violence against another household member without his or her consent. In Louisiana, a household member is:

  • Any opposite-sex adult presently living with the defendant
  • Any opposite-sex adult who has lived with the defendant within five years of the domestic abuse battery, regardless of whether they were actually married
  • Any minor children living with the defendant
  • Any minor children who lived with the defendant within five years of the occurrence of domestic abuse battery
  • Any of the defendant’s biological children.

How Police Respond to Domestic Violence in Shreveport

Police officers in Shreveport, Louisiana must thoroughly investigate allegations of domestic abuse. State law requires officers to take action when they believe that abuse has taken place. If an officer believes a felony abuse incident has occurred, he or she is required to arrest the suspect, even if the officer did not witness the offense. Police officers may do this without a warrant.

In cases of misdemeanor domestic abuse battery, police officers are required to arrest the suspect only when they believe the offense endangers the victim’s physical safety. Otherwise, police may use discretion whether or not to arrest a domestic abuse suspect.

Common Offenses Associated with Domestic Violence

Domestic violence can also incorporate other offenses. Some of the most common crimes associated with domestic violence in Shreveport include:

Penalties for Domestic Abuse Battery in Shreveport

A defendant convicted of domestic abuse battery could face up to six months in jail and a fine of $1,000 for a misdemeanor offense. Repeat convictions bring increased penalties. If the offense involves strangulation, the defendant may serve up to three years in prison.

Other consequences of a domestic abuse offense include:

  • Permanently losing the right to own or possess a firearm.
  • Establishing a permanent criminal record that could prevent you from gaining and keeping employment.
  • A conviction of domestic violence can prohibit you from obtaining a professional license
  • As a subject of a protective order, you could be removed from your home and have limited contact with your spouse, children, and family. A violation of a protective order can result in further penalties.
  • You may lose custody of your children or visitation rights
  • You may be barred from having certain types of jobs

You can reduce your access to educational opportunities. A domestic violence conviction can affect your eligibility for admission into certain degree programs.

Defending Domestic Domestic Violence Charges in Shreveport

It is not easy to dispel domestic violence charges in Shreveport, Louisiana. Even if you are never convicted, the charges can have a significant impact on your life. You deserve aggressive criminal defense in light of domestic violence charges to protect your future.

Attorney Eric G. Johnson is a problem solver who strives to negotiate deals with prosecutors and judges in the best interest of his clients. For over 24 years he has defended clients against domestic violence charges in Louisiana. Call 318-377-1555 for a free consultation.