Domestic violence is a serious offense that can carry felony or misdemeanor charges, depending on the circumstances of the incident. If you have been arrested for domestic violence before, it is vital that you inform your lawyer of any past domestic violence charges or convictions. Repeat offenders can expect to face much more severe legal penalties if they are convicted again. Domestic Violence Law

Penalties for Domestic Violence Increase With Each Conviction

In Ohio, any person who knowingly or recklessly causes physical harm to a family or household member can be charged with domestic violence. For a first offense, you can be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor, or a fourth-degree misdemeanor for a threat of physical harm.

However, the penalties get more and more severe with the number of prior convictions. For example, if you have:

  • One prior conviction. If you have been convicted of domestic violence once before, a second offense can be prosecuted as a fourth-degree felony (threatening to cause harm is also elevated to a second-degree misdemeanor).
  • Two or more prior convictions. After two or more convictions, any subsequent offenses will be charged as third-degree felonies (threatening to cause harm will be prosecuted as a first-degree misdemeanor). Under Ohio law, a third-degree felony may result in one to five years imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.
  • Hurt someone you knew was pregnant. If your alleged victim was pregnant at the time you knowingly or recklessly inflicted physical harm, you can be charged with a fifth-degree felony. If the incident of domestic violence resulted in the termination of the pregnancy or caused serious harm to the unborn child, the court may impose a mandatory prison term of up to one year.

Are you or someone you know facing domestic violence charges? 

If you are facing domestic violence charges, you need to speak with an experienced domestic violence attorney as soon as possible. The Law Offices of Steven R. Adams is recognized by Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, The Best Lawyers in America, National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and is one of U.S. News' Best Law Firms.  Please contact us online or call our Cincinnati office directly at 513-929-9333 to schedule your free consultation. 

Tad Brittingham
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Criminal defense attorney Tad Brittingham is dedicated to serving his clients throughout the Cincinnati area
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