Sevier County Domestic Assault Defense Attorneys - Barnes & Fersten

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SEVIER COUNTY DOMESTIC ASSAULT LAWYER

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY IN SEVIER, TN COMMITTED TO PROTECTING YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS

SEVIER COUNTY DOMESTIC ASSAULT LAWYER

Domestic assault is not always what it appears to be. If you have been charged with a crime related to domestic assault, it is crucial to your future that you secure the services of an experienced Sevier County lawyer who knows the best defense strategies. If you are convicted of a domestic assault, nearly every aspect of your life could be negatively impacted. The risk is simply too significant not to hire knowledgeable legal counsel. Hiring a defense attorney will cost money upfront, but it can be far less the financial and other costs in the long run.

How Does Tennessee Law Define Domestic Assault?

Under Tennessee Code §39-13-111, domestic assault is an assault that happens between:

  • Adults or minors who are existing or former spouses;
  • Adults or children who live together or who have lived together in the past;
  • Adults or children who are dating or who have dated or who have or had a sexual relationship, (excludes fraternization between two individuals in a business or social context)
  • Adults or minors biologically related or by adoption;
  • Adults or minors who are related or were previously related by marriage
  • Adult or minor children of an individual in a relationship that is described in any of the above

Per Tennessee Code §39-13-101, assault is defined as:

  • Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily harm to someone else
  • Intentionally or knowingly causing another to reasonably fear imminent bodily injury
  • Intentionally or knowingly causing physical contact with another and a reasonable individual would regard the contact as extremely offensive or provocative

Some instances of domestic assault fit these definitions perfectly, and others not so much. It is essential to discuss the details of your case with a seasoned Sevier County domestic assault attorney. Your attorney can review the facts in your circumstances to help determine the best strategy going forward. 

Consequences of a Domestic Assault Conviction

In Tennessee, a simple (non-aggravated) domestic assault is charged as a Class A or B misdemeanor.

  • A Class A misdemeanor has the potential penalty of up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,500 in addition to a mandatory $250 fine
  • A Class B misdemeanor has the potential penalty of up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $500 in addition to a mandatory $250 fine

It is also of note that if you are convicted of domestic assault at any level, you must immediately forfeit any firearms, and you may lose the lifetime ability to own any. You might also lose your reputation and your job, the ability to obtain specific jobs in the future, and face severe financial consequences. If you have children, you may be prevented from seeing them in the future or may only be allowed to have court-supervised visits with them. A Sevier County domestic assault lawyer can work to build a defense or negotiate a plea deal that allows you to avoid the most serious consequences associated with your case. 

What to Expect When Meeting with a Sevier County Domestic Assault Attorney

When you meet with a domestic assault lawyer in Sevier County, you are meeting with a potential advocate. Remember, they are on your side. However, they will ask very detailed questions about your previous criminal record, your circumstances, and what took place to cause your charges. It is imperative that you are honest with your attorney, so they know how to best work for you. At your consultation, be prepared to answer questions such as:

Your attorney will obtain additional pertinent information by reviewing your arrest warrant, the affidavit of complaint, the full police report, and any witness statements. They may also interview the police officers involved in your arrest and the alleged victim. 

Help from a Domestic Assault Attorney in Sevier County

Domestic assault charges are risky, even if you have no prior criminal history. Facing charges of domestic assault requires action on your part. You need to act to preserve your reputation, your finances, your job, and your future. Take steps to protect yourself today by hiring a qualified Sevier County domestic assault attorney whose priority is getting the best results possible in your case. 

Call the Barnes and Fersten Law Firm at 865-805-5703 to schedule your consultation today with an experienced domestic assault attorney in Sevier County, or you can use our confidential online contact form. We also offer the convenient option of online video consultations. 

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