Did you know that roughly 20 people are physically abused every minute by a significant other in the United States? This totals out to over 10 million domestic violence occurrences in one year alone.
Often time abusers believe that they can intimidate a partner enough that they avoid calling the police at all cost. However, when a person fears for their lives they will call the police.
Domestic violence isn’t always with an intimate partner, DV includes anyone who lives with you. This includes parents, children, and even roommates.
The consequences of domestic violence are extremely serious and it will negatively impact the rest of your life.
You Will Spend Time In Jail
If the police receive a DV call, you will have to spend 48 hours in jail before you can post bond.
If the domestic violence case results in a conviction, you will receive jail time. The minimum jail time is 5 days, however, if you are sentenced to prison you will be in there for over a year.
45% of assailants sent to prison received a sentence over two years.
The varying incarceration time depends on whether you are being charged with a misdemeanor or a felony.
A misdemeanor occurs if you are charged with shoving or pushing someone who lives with you. A person must not be injured for a misdemeanor to take place. You are more likely to be charged with a felony if you have a history of domestic violence charges and if the victim suffers from serious bodily harm.
Probation/Fines
Once you are released from prison or jail, you will be put on probation.
This can vary depending on your domestic charges but you will still be confined to your living space for a certain amount of time. You will also have a curfew if you have a job or are required to partake in community service.
If being stuck in your house isn’t bad enough, you may also have to pay a hefty fine. This can range from a couple hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. Often times the average is around two-thousand dollars.
You may also be required to go to counseling which takes time out of your day and may cost you more money.
You Can Lose Your Job
Not only will a domestic violence conviction result in jail time, probation, and fines, you may also lose your job.
If you lose your job because you were in jail, it may be harder for you to find a job with a criminal record attached to your name. Jobs that include public service, weapon handling or child care may be impossible for you to get.
This means that if that’s all your resume has to offer, you might have to start from the bottom to be considered for any job.
It will be hard to pay for your home and your fines with an entry-level job.
Consequences Of Domestic Violence Overview
Domestic violence charges can be avoided entirely. Whether your roommate is driving you crazy or you have a jealousy issue, you can choose to avoid physical assault.
If you don’t, your entire life may be ruined just because you couldn’t control your temper. The consequences of domestic violence have serious implications on your life, but that is why we are here to help.
If you need to make bond or need legal advice, contact us today.