Manchester Domestic Violence Lawyer

Experienced Defense Against Domestic Violence Charges in Hillsborough County

Domestic violence covers acts of simple assault, criminal restraint, criminal threatening, harassment, violating a restraining order or order of protection, or criminal mischief. These allegations involve spouses, ex-spouses, household members, relatives, or current or former romantic partners. When your reputation and future are on the line, you must proceed with your case with an experienced legal representative.

At George T. Campbell, Attorney at Law, I bring more than two decades of trial experience to every criminal defense case I take on. I know how the state of New Hampshire pursues convictions against the accused and what can be done to ensure that any shortcomings in the prosecution's case are exposed adequately before the court. If you have been charged with domestic violence, the time to take action is now.

Are you facing a domestic violence charge in New Hampshire? Call George T. Campbell, Attorney at Law today at (603) 787-5364or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our domestic violence attorney in Manchester!

What are New Hampshire's Domestic Violence Definitions? 

In New Hampshire, domestic violence is defined as the occurrence of one or more of the following acts committed by a family or household member against another family or household member:

• Assault: The intentional, knowing, or reckless causing of bodily injury, or the attempt to cause bodily injury, to another person.
• Reckless conduct: Conduct that places another person in danger of serious bodily injury.
• Criminal threatening: The communication of a threat to commit any crime resulting in bodily injury to another person.
• Sexual assault: Any unwanted sexual contact, including rape, attempted rape, and other forms of sexual assault.
• Stalking: The repeated following, harassing, or threatening behavior that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety or the safety of their family members.
• Interference with freedom: The intentional interference with another person's freedom, including taking or withholding a person's personal property or interfering with their access to transportation or communication.

These acts are considered domestic violence when committed against a family or household member, which includes current or former spouses, domestic partners, parents, children, siblings, and individuals who are or were in a dating relationship. It is important to note that domestic violence can take many different forms and can involve physical, emotional, or financial abuse.

What are the Penalties for Domestic Violence in New Hampshire?

Domestic violence is a serious crime in New Hampshire, and its penalties can be severe. The penalties for domestic violence in New Hampshire depend on the case's specific circumstances, such as the severity of the offense, whether there are any prior convictions, and whether any injuries were sustained.

Here are some possible penalties for domestic violence in New Hampshire:

• Class A misdemeanor: A person who commits a simple assault against a family or household member may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor. The penalty for this offense may include a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to one year in jail.
• Class B felony: If a person causes serious bodily injury to a family or household member, they may be charged with a Class B felony. The penalty for this offense may include a fine of up to $4,000 and/or up to seven years in prison.
• Enhanced penalty: If the offender has two or more prior domestic violence convictions within the past ten years, they may be subject to enhanced penalties. For example, a person who commits a simple assault against a family or household member and has two or more prior domestic violence convictions may be charged with a Class B felony, which carries a penalty of up to seven years in prison and/or a fine of up to $4,000.
• Protective order: In addition to criminal penalties, a court may issue a protective order against the offender, including provisions such as prohibiting the offender from having contact with the victim or entering the victim's residence.

It's worth noting that New Hampshire takes domestic violence seriously and has a mandatory arrest law. This means that if law enforcement officers have probable cause to believe that domestic violence has occurred, they must make an arrest, regardless of whether the victim wants to press charges.

Understanding the Impact of Domestic Violence Charges

Facing domestic violence charges can have profound implications on your life, both personally and professionally. It's crucial to grasp the full scope of these charges and their potential consequences. At George T. Campbell, Attorney at Law, we understand that each case is unique, and we are committed to providing personalized legal support to navigate these challenging situations.

Here are some key aspects to consider regarding the impact of domestic violence charges:

• Emotional and Psychological Effects: Being accused of domestic violence can lead to significant emotional distress, not only for the accused but also for the alleged victim and their families. It’s essential to have a support system in place during this challenging time.
• Reputation and Employment: Domestic violence accusations can tarnish your reputation and potentially affect your employment. Employers may take such allegations seriously, impacting your job security and future career opportunities.
• Custody Issues: If children are involved, domestic violence charges can complicate custody arrangements. Courts prioritize the safety and well-being of children, which may influence custody decisions.
• Legal Consequences: Beyond penalties, a conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, affecting various aspects of your life, including housing, education, and travel.

Having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. George T. Campbell is here to help you understand your rights and fight for the best possible resolution. Don’t navigate this complex situation alone—contact us today for a consultation.