DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ATTORNEY IN KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

In the state of Missouri, domestic violence involves any violent act, abuse, or assault against a family member, household member, or a current or former dating partner. Unfortunately, a domestic violence charge or conviction might subject you to lengthy incarceration, massive fines, a restraining order, loss of parental privileges, a criminal record, and other social consequences. In the face of everything, it is normal to feel frightened and confused.  

If you have been arrested and charged with domestic violence in your area, you need to consult a trusted criminal defense attorney. At Howard L. Lotven, P.C., I provide skilled representation for clients across Kansas City, Missouri, in their domestic violence cases.  

My firm proudly serves the surrounding areas of Independence, Rock Port, and Lexington. As your lawyer, I will investigate every aspect of your unique situation and craft a strong defense to dispute the accusations against you and help keep your record as clean as possible. 

Domestic Violence in Missouri 

According to Missouri law, domestic violence or domestic assault involves any violent or abusive conduct committed against a household or family member. Furthermore, a person commits the crime of assault in Missouri if they cause, place, or attempt to place another person in imminent fear of harm, pain, or physical injury. When the assault act is committed against a member of their household, the offense will be charged as domestic assault. 

Domestic Victims 

Under Missouri law, a domestic victim involves any of these household or family members: 

• current or former spouse 

• current or former cohabitant 

• relative by marriage or blood 

• co-parent, irrespective of their current relationship status 

• current or former romantic or intimate partner 

If you or someone you know has been arrested and charged with domestic assault, you need to get in touch with a seasoned defense attorney as soon as possible. The earlier you consult a lawyer, the better your chances of a solid defense will be. 

Possible Penalties and Consequences  

In Missouri, allegations of domestic violence often carry devastating punishments. Depending on the defendant's criminal record, severity of the crime, and other surrounding circumstances, a person convicted of domestic assault may be facing any of the following penalties and ramifications: 

• hefty fines and court fees. 

• prison sentences (ranging from months or years) 

• mandatory anger management classes 

• probation 

• community service 

• tainted criminal history/record 

• an Order of Protection against you 

• ineligibility to obtain certain financial loans 

• increased difficulty traveling overseas. 

• loss of the right to vote during elections. 

• damage to professional, personal, and familial relationships 

• loss of the right to carry or possess a firearm or gun 

• loss of parental privileges, including child custody and visitation rights 

• possible deportation or inadmissibility into the United States 

• increased difficulty in getting a new job, housing, or public assistance 

Possible Defenses  

When facing domestic assault charges in Missouri, your legal counsel can help fight the false accusation with any of the following legal defenses: 

• false accusation 

• self-defense 

• lack of intent 

• error during the investigation 

• innocence (You didn't do it) 

• the incident occurred due to the victim's behavior or actions 

• accident 

• inconsistencies in the evidence 

• they can't prove the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. 

As an experienced defense attorney, I can determine the best legal defense to fight your charges in pursuit of your most favorable outcome. 

How Legal Counsel Can Help 

A domestic violence allegation in Missouri is very serious and could possibly jeopardize your quality of life, personal reputation, career, freedom, and future. However, trying to defend the criminal charges without skilled guidance and representation could expose you to the risks of getting convicted. Therefore, when charged with domestic violence, hiring a strategic criminal defense attorney is paramount for detailed guidance and to help build your case. 

I have devoted my career to offering outstanding legal services and protecting individuals wrongfully charged with domestic violence from the worst possible situation. As your legal counsel, I can examine all of the surrounding facts of your case and strategize an effective defense to refute the accusations against you. Above all, I will help you navigate the Missouri criminal justice system and make sure those allegations don't ruin your reputation or your future.