Livingston New Jersey Attorney: Handling Both Sides of Domestic Violence Accusations
Domestic violence crosses social, economic, racial and cultural boundaries. When allegations of domestic abuse are made, they need to be addressed quickly and proactively. These charges are difficult, emotional and complicated by the fact that the witnesses are generally married or co-habitating couples themselves. Children could also be involved, and any testimony they give could be biased toward one party or the other, or could be tainted by a zealous prosecutor who asks leading questions. Domestic violence cases cross another boundary, a legal one, by having both family law and criminal components.
My name is James Patton, and I am a Livingston, New Jersey, attorney with over 30 years of experience. My skill at handling both matrimonial law cases and criminal matters puts me in an ideal position to address domestic violence allegations. While I typically represent men who have been accused of abuse, I will also aid women seeking protection from an abuser.
Notable case: I sought and obtained an acquittal for a client accused of domestic assault. The client later divorced, and my work helped him get joint custody of his children.
Domestic Violence Considerations
Since domestic violence is a hybrid between criminal law and family law, there are unique aspects that must be considered to succeed. These include:
- Investigating whether the accusations were made out of retaliation or to gain an advantage in divorce proceedings; if so, the charges may be dropped.
- Depending on the circumstances, parties themselves may press charges, or the government may independently bring them. The defense strategy could be different for each.
- Your best interests may be served by accepting a plea agreement or by seeking a diversion program like attendance at anger management classes, substance abuse treatment or counseling sessions.
- If there were children in the home when the abuse occurred, then child custody may become an issue.
- Orders of protection,
Call 973-577-7180 for Impassioned and Experienced Representation
I am here to handle all manner of domestic violence-related cases throughout Essex County and surrounding areas. I offer a free initial consultation to prospective clients and accept evening and weekend appointments as needed. Call me at 973-577-7180 or send me an e-mail today.