Ruston, LA Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

If you have been accused of domestic violence in Ruston, LA, it can feel as though the whole world is suddenly against you. Whether the accusations are true or not, the consequences of a resulting conviction can be serious and life-altering. Whether you have been accused of child abuse in Turtle Creek or a vengeful ex has accused you of domestic violence in Tanglewood, you need to speak with a Ruston, LA, domestic violence defense lawyer as soon as possible. 

Protect Your Future With John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm, LLC

At John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm, LLC, we are here to protect your rights and future from the damage a domestic violence conviction could cause. We understand the urgency you are likely to feel and are ready to defend you no matter what. For the last 32 years, we have established ourselves as trusted legal advocates for those facing criminal charges across Louisiana’s I-20 corridor and are now ready to turn our time and attention to your case. 

When facing domestic violence charges in Ruston, your case will be heard in one of two locations, depending on its severity. For minor domestic violence cases, you will likely need to attend hearings at the Ruston City Court. However, for more serious cases, the Lincoln Parish Courthouse on West Texas Avenue will handle your case. John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm, LLC, is familiar with handling cases at both of these locations and is ready to protect you.

Common Domestic Violence Charges in Ruston, LA

In Ruston, there are several different categories for domestic violence and several different kinds of charges. Each of these charges is accompanied by its own varying degree of severity and, therefore, its own unique penalties. Understanding your exact charges will help you better understand the seriousness of your case. The most common domestic violence charges in Ruston that we handle include:

• Simple domestic abuse battery. Nearly 1.8 million Louisiana residents have faced some form of intimate partner violence in their lifetime. The charge of simple domestic battery is often the most common in cases of domestic violence and involves any kind of offensive contact or physical harm done against the victim. Actions can include the slapping or pushing of a family member or romantic partner. 
• Aggravated domestic abuse battery. This is a much more serious form of domestic violence and involves the use of a weapon or happens when the victim suffers serious bodily injury. This charge is typically met with harsher penalties and longer prison sentences. 
• Domestic violence with a child present. If a child witnesses an act of domestic violence, then the defendant will likely face more severe penalties if convicted. Nearly 15.5 million children witness domestic violence every year across the United States.
• Stalking with domestic violence. In certain cases of domestic violence, charges can relate to any behavior interpreted as stalking. If the victim in the case feels as though they are being harassed or followed, then you may face stalking charges on top of any present domestic violence charges.

No matter what kind of domestic violence charge you are dealing with, you need to hire an attorney as soon as possible. Even in cases where allegations are false — which happens in up to 10% of cases — having an attorney on your side is essential. 

Potential Consequences for a Domestic Violence Conviction

Domestic violence charges are serious. Even if you are never convicted, the very fact that you have been accused and charged can see you suffer irreparable damage to your personal and professional reputation. A successful conviction, however, can have severe and life-altering penalties that will extend beyond the courtroom. The most common consequences for a domestic violence conviction include:

• Criminal penalties. If convicted, you will likely face some combination of jail or prison time, large monetary fines, probation, or mandatory counseling or anger management classes. 
• Permanent criminal record. Suffering a conviction of domestic violence will stay on your permanent criminal record. This can harm your future employment, education, housing, and financial opportunities. It can also place strain on your personal relationships. 
• Loss of certain rights. A conviction of domestic violence can see you lose certain civil rights, such as the right to own or possess a firearm. 
• Impact on family law cases. If you find yourself in the midst of a divorce or a child custody case, being convicted of domestic violence can have a massively negative impact on your rights as a parent. 

Past the common legal penalties, the long-term impact of a domestic violence conviction can change the entire course of the future. For this reason, it is critical that you hire an attorney who is not only experienced in handling these cases but is also not afraid to shy away from cases that other attorneys may consider too tough. 

Fighting for You When You Need It the Most

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Defending You Against Domestic Violence Charges

At John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm, LLC, we are here to review your case and determine what method of defense works properly for your charges. The most common strategies for defense in domestic violence cases include the following:

• A lack of evidence is needed to convict
• Suffering false allegations
• Acting in self-defense or in the defense of others
• Being granted the consent of the alleged victim

With the counsel and representation of a skilled Ruston domestic violence attorney, these legal options for defense can be explored and built to protect your rights and freedoms. At John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm, LLC, we make sure your side of the story is heard and respected. 

Hire a Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Today If you have been accused of domestic violence in Ruston, Louisiana, the team at John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm, LLC, is here to fight to defend and protect your rights. When you hire a domestic violence defense lawyer from our firm, you can rest assured knowing that you have the right legal team in your corner. Schedule your initial consultation today by contacting us via our online form. Whatever your case involves, we are here to fight for you.