Las Vegas Domestic Violence Lawyer

Perhaps one of the most painful experiences a person can go through is being victimized by someone he or she loves. Everyone can feel anger, disappointment, or passion at one time or another. Unfortunately, when our emotions get the best of them, some people can act in ways they never thought possible of themselves. The repercussions of domestic violence or abuse could have long-lasting physical, emotional, mental, and psychological effects. In some cases, the damage is irreversible.

Common examples of domestic violence include:

• Physical abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Verbal abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Psychological abuse
• Family abuse

The law applies to married couples, individuals who share a child, cohabitating partners, and anyone else who shares a close personal relationship, such as roommates or close family members. Because Nevada’s laws recognize a wide variety of actions as domestic violence, it’s essential to have an experienced Las Vegas domestic violence lawyer by your side to protect your rights if you are involved in a family law matter with allegations of domestic violence.

What Does a Protection Order Do in Domestic Violence Cases?

Most domestic violence defendants are first time offenders who have never been arrested before. Although it may seem very confusing, and stressful, the court may issue a protective order after the sentence is ordered out. The protective order can include a stay-away condition or a residency exclusion, but it does not have to.

A protection order is a court order that protects a person, the applicant, by requiring that another person, the adverse party, abstain from certain behaviors. A temporary protection order lasts for 30 days while an extended protection order can last for up to one year.

An applicant can request an order of protection if they have been the victim of a crime involving sexual assault, harassment, or stalking perpetrated by the adverse party. A parent or guardian who has been impacted by a crime that is harmful to minors can also request a protective order.

The Impact of Domestic Violence on Family Law Matters

When domestic violence is part of a family law dispute, the implications can be far-reaching. Domestic violence can significantly affect custody battles, visitation rights, and the overall outcome of divorce proceedings. Nevada law requires the court to prioritize the best interests of the child, and allegations of domestic violence can have a significant influence on these decisions.

• Child Custody and Visitation: When determining custody and visitation arrangements, Nevada courts prioritize the safety and well-being of the children involved. If a parent is accused of domestic violence, the court may limit their custodial rights to ensure that the children are protected. This could result in supervised visitation or even a denial of visitation rights. A Las Vegas domestic violence lawyer can assist whether you are seeking to defend yourself against false accusations or trying to obtain full custody of your children after experiencing domestic violence. 
• Divorce Proceedings and Domestic Violence: In cases where domestic violence is a factor, it can complicate divorce proceedings. If you are seeking a divorce from an abusive spouse, it is important to seek legal representation to ensure that you are protected from further harm during the divorce process. Additionally, a history of domestic violence may impact the division of assets, spousal support, and other aspects of divorce. Courts are likely to consider the conduct of each spouse during the marriage.

A Las Vegas domestic violence attorney can help you navigate the emotional and legal complexities of divorce when domestic violence is involved, ensuring that you are protected physically, emotionally, and financially throughout the process.

Contact us today to speak with a Las Vegas domestic violence attorney! Call our office at (702) 996-6052.

Domestic Violence Charges and Penalties in Nevada

In Nevada, domestic violence charges are classified as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the severity of the offense, any prior convictions, and whether the alleged victim suffered significant injury. The penalties for domestic violence convictions can be severe, ranging from fines and mandatory counseling to imprisonment. Understanding these consequences and the potential outcomes of your case is essential.

• Misdemeanor Domestic Violence: If a defendant is convicted of a misdemeanor domestic violence charge, they could face up to six months in jail, fines, and mandatory counseling or community service. The court may also impose a protection order prohibiting contact between the defendant and the victim.
• Felony Domestic Violence: Felony charges can arise in cases involving significant injury to the victim, prior domestic violence convictions, or use of a weapon. If convicted, the penalties can include imprisonment for several years, heavy fines, mandatory counseling, and other legal consequences.
• Domestic Violence with a Weapon: Domestic violence charges involving a weapon can lead to more severe penalties. If the prosecution can prove that a weapon was used during the alleged incident, the defendant could face felony charges, regardless of prior convictions. The penalties for this type of charge can include long-term imprisonment and significant fines.

The Importance of Having a Skilled Las Vegas Domestic Violence Lawyer

Navigating domestic violence accusations in family law matters requires a strategic and thorough approach. Whether you are the victim of domestic violence or accused of it, having a skilled lawyer by your side is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.

A Las Vegas domestic violence attorney can help you by:

• Representing you in custody and divorce proceedings, ensuring that your rights and safety are prioritized.
• Helping you obtain or contest a protection order, depending on your situation.
• Building a defense if you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, including challenging evidence and presenting viable defense strategies.
• Advising you on the best steps to take in family law matters involving domestic violence, whether you need to protect yourself from an abuser or seek to gain custody of your children.

Domestic violence cases can be emotionally draining, but with the assistance of an experienced Las Vegas domestic violence lawyer, you can feel confident that you are making the right legal decisions for your future and that of your family.

Creative Solutions for Serious Matters

Everyone can be affected by a domestic violence matter. Whether you are a victim, have been accused of domestic violence, or are the parent of a child who has been abused, domestic violence is a serious issue that demands the immediate attention of a legal professional.

Even if you want to drop the charges, the prosecutor may still try to pursue a case. We are committed to protecting your family during this sensitive and emotional time. We can listen to your concerns and determine which course of action to take to obtain the best possible results. From answering questions or concerns to simply providing an ear, we will make ourselves available to you and your family through this difficult court process.

If you would like to learn more about how we can help you, contact Leavitt Law Firm to speak with a member of our team today calling at (702) 996-6052!