DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CRIMES IN MICHIGAN

by Justin Van Den Heuvel

An allegation of domestic violence in Michigan is a serious concern. A conviction for domestic violence can have permanent ramifications for you and your loved ones. If you have been accused of committing an act of violence against a family member, you need the services of a highly qualified criminal defense attorney right away. For more information and a free review of your case, call or contact the experienced criminal defense attorneys at the Van Den Heuvel Law Office today.

 Domestic Violence Offenses in Michigan

Domestic violence in Michigan is defined as an act of violence or a realistic threat of violence between members of a household. A household member includes a spouse, person with whom you have a child together, people living under the same roof, members of the same family, or a couple involved in a dating relationship. You do not have to be related by blood or married to have an accusation of domestic violence leveled against you nor does an actual act of violence need to be committed, and this type of crime can either be a misdemeanor or felony offense depending on the facts of the case.

Michigan separates domestic violence into two different offenses — domestic assault and aggravated domestic assault. Domestic assault is defined as the threat or successful act of violence against a household member. The first and second convictions of this offense are considered misdemeanor offenses, but the third conviction can be tried as a felony offense. A misdemeanor conviction can lead to a year in jail and $1,000 in fines, whereas a felony conviction can mean up to two years in prison and a fine up to $2,500. 

Aggravated domestic assault is charged when the alleged crime involves a weapon. If the claimed domestic assault was attempted but the victim is uninjured, it can be tried as a misdemeanor offense, but if the victim suffers any type of injury the charge is a felony. Aggravated domestic assault conviction comes with more severe penalties, with even a first conviction leading to a year in jail, and a felony conviction can mean spending four years in prison. 

Ramifications of a Domestic Violence Conviction

The ramifications for a domestic assault conviction in Michigan cannot be overstated. In addition to being labeled a domestic abuser, you will have a criminal record that will show up in every background check for a job, housing, and employment. If you have a child, the other parent may be able to terminate your parental rights and keep you from ever spending time with your child. Restraining orders can be filed that require you to stay a certain distance away from family and household members, and you can face prison time, court fines, fees, probation, anger management classes, and more.

Talk to Us Now

If you have been accused of domestic assault, our office can help defend your rights and provide you with a zealous defense against these terrible accusations. To learn more about your legal options after a charge of domestic violence, call or contact the Van Den Heuvel Law Office today. 

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