Bristol County Domestic Violence Attorneys

Work with a Well-Respected Law Firm 

Domestic violence charges are taken very seriously, and Massachusetts prosecutors are aggressive in their pursuit of convictions. With penalties that include fines and lengthy prison sentences, domestic violence charges should always be taken seriously and treated with meticulous care. 

At the Law Office of Frank D. Camera and Associates, P.C., we know how overwhelmed and scared you must be. In addition to conviction penalties, you are likely concerned about how your charges or a conviction will affect your family and reputation. You are not alone; our Bristol County domestic violence defense lawyers are here to help guide you through this. 

Turn to our trusted domestic violence lawyers for personalized legal counsel. Dial (877) 444-1098 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and discuss your options.

Defining Domestic Violence Under MA State Law

Under Massachusetts General Laws, domestic violence is defined through a comprehensive framework that outlines the nature of abuse and the relationships within which such acts occur. Simply speaking, domestic violence is defined as abuse occurring between family or household members. 

Abuse, in this context, is recognized through various acts that cause physical, emotional, or sexual harm. These include attempts or successful efforts to cause physical damage, instilling a fear of significant bodily harm (intimidation), or coercing someone into non-consensual sexual activities. 

Under this law, family and household relationships are defined as people who: 

• Are or were married to each other 
• Are or were cohabitating together 
• Are related to one another through marriage or blood 
• Are or have been in a substantive romantic or dating relationship 
• Have children in common 

Massachusetts law allows victims of domestic violence to seek a protective order, a type of restraining order that can enforce no-contact stipulations, order the abuser to vacate the shared residence, or grant temporary sole custody of children. Violating these protective orders is a criminal offense that can lead to arrest and prosecution.

What To Do If Accused of or Arrested for Domestic Violence

If you find yourself accused of domestic violence or arrested on charges related to domestic violence in Bristol County, Massachusetts, you should take immediate steps to protect your rights. The first recommended step is to seek legal representation from an experienced attorney, like ours in Bristol County, as soon as possible. 

An experienced attorney experienced in defending domestic violence cases can provide you with the guidance you need to help you understand the charges against you. They can also guide you in developing a strategic defense to address these serious allegations and represent you in court. 

The Impact of Being Found Guilty of Domestic Violence 

Convictions for domestic violence in Massachusetts carry significant legal repercussions. For a first offense of assault or assault and battery on a family or household member, the law sanctions up to two and a half (2 1/2) years in a correctional facility, a fine that can reach up to $5,000, or potentially both. For subsequent offenses, the penalties escalate substantially. The law dictates a sentence to the correctional facility for the same duration as the first offense or imprisonment in the state prison for up to five (5) years.

Given the gravity of these consequences, it is imperative to act swiftly and secure legal counsel. At the Law Office of Frank D. Camera and Associates, P.C., we understand how overwhelming it is to face domestic violence allegations. With over 35 years of combined experience, we have developed a strong reputation for our commitment to our clients. We are ready to help you deal with your charges. 

Were you accused of domestic violence in Bristol County? Turn to our law firm for guidance. Call us at (877) 444-1098 or message us here.