Bucks County Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys

Sometimes what seems like a simple argument can escalate to the point where unthinkable things are said to the ones we love. Other times the argument may escalate to the point where even those we love may perceive a threat to their health or safety. In other circumstances unintentional contact may be made that is interpreted as a physical attack. Finally, and unfortunately, sometimes when one party knows that a divorce is imminent, they may try to “trap” the other party in domestic violence allegations thereby gaining the advantage in custody or alimony negotiations. Regardless of the circumstances from which your domestic violence charges arose from, the experienced team at Young, Marr & Associates can protect your reputation and defend you from potentially life-altering serious criminal penalties.

Types of Spousal Abuse Charges in Bucks County

Police officers are instructed to construe the definition of domestic violence broadly when they investigate a complaint. Under Pennsylvania law, for there to have been an incident of domestic violence, the violent act must have been against a household member. The definition of a household member in Pennsylvania is someone you live with presently, someone you have lived with in the past, or someone that you have a child with, certain familial relationships, or a dating relationship with. Further, Pennsylvania, under its Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, considers an act to be domestic violence if it is one of fourteen prohibited types of conduct  not limited to:

• Assault
• Terrorist threats
• Homicide
• Harassment
• Stalking
• Sexual assault
• Criminal sexual conduct
• Kidnapping

Criminal charges can result from an allegation of domestic abuse.  In Pennsylvania, a Protection From Abuse Order (PFA) may be granted by the judge. This can prevent you from returning to your home or having any contact with affected individuals.

Protecting Against Abusive PFAs and TROs

Without a doubt, both the TRO and PFA are useful tools that can protect the abused from their abuser. But what happens when the PFA or TRO itself becomes an instrument of abuse? Because courts err on the side of caution they are likely to grant a TRO or PFA if there appears to be any evidence that supports the claim of abuse or fear of abuse. Further, in Pennsylvania, the PFA can be entered even if there were no physical injuries but there appeared to be an attempt to place another under reasonable fear. If one party incorrectly interprets a chance encounter at the Supermarket or local park, serious consequences can result including:

• Restrictions from traveling on certain routes o through certain areas
• Loss of your right to own a gun or other firearm
• Loss of leverage in divorce proceedings
• Serious damage to your reputation

We work to prevent abuse of the PFA process so that legitimate abuse victims do not one day find their options limited or foreclosed.

Our Bucks County, PA Domestic Abuse Defense Lawyers Can Help

Whenever there is a familial dispute, the utmost care should be taken so that unnecessary additional harm is not inflicted on other family members or children that may be involved. However anytime you are facing serious criminal charges that jeopardize your freedom, persistent and aggressive representation is needed. Our attorneys strike a balance between these needs when they pursue your goals.
If you are facing domestic violence allegations, an experienced Young, Marr and Associates attorney can represent your interests and protect your reputation. To see if we can help you, call (215) 701-6519 to reach our Pennsylvania offices or contact us online today.