Portland Domestic Violence Lawyer
If you’ve been a victim of domestic violence, you’ll need an experienced Portland domestic violence lawyer who knows the law inside and out. Domestic violence can include many different types of abuse including dating abuse, family abuse, and spousal abuse. Abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, economic or psychological actions or threats used to influence or control another person. Any behavior with the intention to intimidate, hurt, manipulate, shame, or humiliate is a form of abuse.
Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Portland
There’s a reason people from all over the country are relocating to Portland. A short drive west leads you to the ocean and a brief drive east takes you to the mountains. With so many historic neighborhoods and landmarks, there’s plenty to see and do. From Congress Street to the majestic St. Johns Bridge and the pristine Pittock Mansion, Portland has much to offer residents and visitors alike.
But sadly, no matter where you live, there are people who are suffering from domestic violence in some form or another. Domestic violence is generally manifested as a pattern of abusive behavior toward a partner or spouse in an intimate or family relationship. In these patterns, the abuser tries to gain control or dominance over their victims. If you or a loved one is caught in a domestic violence relationship and needs a way out, a trusted domestic violence lawyer can offer help.
Is Domestic Violence a Felony in Oregon?
There are several different offenses that are common when it comes to domestic violence cases ranging from Class A Misdemeanor to Class A Felony. Below is a list of some of the most common offenses and their potential consequences and fines:
● Menacing threats -Class A misdemeanor. Up to one year in jail and fines up to $6250.
● Stalking -Class A misdemeanor. Up to one year in jail and fines up to $6250.
● 4th Degree Assault -Class A misdemeanor. Up to one year in jail and fines up to $6250.
● 3rd Degree Assault -Class C Felony. Up to 5 years in prison and $125,000 in fines.
● 2nd Degree Assault -Class B Felony. Up to 10 years in prison and $250,000 in fines.
● 1st Degree Assault -Class A Felony. Up to 20 years in prison and $375,000 in fines.
What is burglary domestic violence in Oregon?
The term domestic violence can be used to describe a wide variety of crimes. Assault, murder, burglary, and harassment to name a few. Burglary is defined as entering or remaining unlawfully in a building with the intent to commit a crime. If you’re accused of committing burglary where the building you entered is a dwelling or home, you could face charges of burglary in the 2nd degree. This offense is a Class C Felony and carries a potential 5 years in prison and $125,000 in fines.
How to report domestic violence in Oregon
People often think of domestic violence as a private or family matter. This couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s a serious social issue that can impact anyone regardless of social status, education, gender, age, or race. To put an end to the domestic violence epidemic we have to acknowledge that victims never deserve abuse.
Call 911 if you see that someone is being abused and is in immediate danger. If you suspect abuse but aren’t certain, learn what to ask and how best to approach the situation with sensitivity.
For emergency situations, calling the police is necessary. However, it’s important to understand that for various reasons some victims and survivors may not want the police to become involved. The number of the National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Can domestic violence charges be dropped?
Getting domestic violence charges dropped is possible but can prove to be difficult. Dropping the charges for any crime often isn’t up to the person that’s been harmed or is the victim. If the issue has a criminal prosecuting attorney, the issue may progress to the trial stage without any say from the victim. It’s up to the legal team involved to drop a case once the victim asks for the charges to be dropped. If sufficient evidence isn’t presented showing the matter needs to be pursued and the victim is willing to testify, charges can be dropped.
How to drop charges against someone for domestic violence
The criminal justice system frequently deals with people who make a complaint to the police department about their partner, then decide they want those charges dropped. Allegations may be made out of anger in the heat of the moment. Once both parties calm down, they want to reconcile but have their domestic violence offenses looming over them.
In order to have domestic violence charges dropped, you’ll need to convince the prosecutor to do so. There are a variety of ways in which a criminal defendant can accomplish this:
1. Complete a pretrial diversion program
2. Present exculpatory evidence
3. Agree to testify against another defendant
4. Take a plea deal
5. Show that your rights were violated by the police
Exculpatory evidence is any sign that the defendant isn’t guilty. Exculpatory evidence is the main reason that a prosecutor may decide to drop a criminal charge. It can keep the prosecutor from proving their case beyond a reasonable doubt. For example, footage of the crime showing someone other than the defendant committing it or proof the defendant wasn't at the scene of the crime when it occurred.
Is verbal abuse domestic violence?
Some people mistakenly think that physical harm is the only avenue used by abusers. But domestic abuse can take many forms. Verbal, emotional, sexual, and even financial abuse are all considered domestic violence. Any aspect of control and manipulation over a partner is unacceptable and is abuse. It involves such behaviors as shaming their partners for things out of their control, trivializing their feelings and actions, criticizing, judging, name-calling and threats. Victims of verbal abuse have rights and are protected by the law.
Portland Domestic Violence Lawyer
If you find yourself in need of a criminal justice attorney in the Beaverton-Portland area, we can help. We have the experience and tools to aggressively fight for your rights. Don’t try to walk this intimidating path alone. Let our experience go to work for you!
*Nothing herein constitutes legal advice. You should obtain independent legal counsel regarding your specific factual situation.
