Using a Dallas DV Lawyer to Avoid Jail Time and Protect Your Rights

Using a Dallas DV Lawyer to Avoid Jail Time and Protect Your Rights

Getting arrested for domestic violence can be really scary. Even if you’re innocent, the legal system can seem stacked against you. That’s why it’s so important to get a good Dallas domestic violence lawyer on your side asap. A good DV lawyer knows the system inside-out and will fight to protect your rights and help you avoid jail time.

First off, let’s talk about what happens when you get arrested. The cops will take you down to the station and book you. They’ll take your fingerprints, mug shots, all that jazz. Then you’ll see a judge who will set your bail. Bail is money you pay to get out of jail while your case is pending. If you can’t afford bail, you’ll be stuck in jail until your trial. No bueno.

After you get bailed out, the prosecution will start building their case against you. They’re gonna try to prove “beyond a reasonable doubt” that you’re guilty. Meanwhile, your lawyer will be investigating the case and figuring out how to poke holes in the prosecution’s argument. Your lawyer may find witnesses who tell a different story, evidence that contradicts the prosecution’s timeline, stuff like that. The stronger your lawyer’s defense, the better chance you have of avoiding conviction.

How a Good DV Lawyer Gets Cases Dismissed or Charges Reduced

There’s a couple ways a skilled DV lawyer can get your charges lessened or dropped entirely:

• Negotiating with the prosecutor: Many cases get resolved through plea bargains between the defense lawyer and prosecutor. Your lawyer may be able to get the prosecutor to drop some charges or reduce the charges in exchange for a guilty plea.
• Filing motions: Your lawyer can file motions asking the judge to throw out certain evidence or statements that were obtained illegally.
• Presenting affirmative defenses: For example, self-defense is an affirmative defense to DV charges. If your lawyer can show you acted in self-defense, the charges could get tossed.

The better your lawyer is, the more likely they’ll be able to get your charges reduced or dismissed before trial. An experienced DV lawyer has probably handled hundreds of cases just like yours, so they know all the angles.

Why You Should Never Represent Yourself

Trying to defend yourself against domestic violence charges is a bad idea. The prosecutors eat self-represented defendants for breakfast. They’ll steamroll right over you. Even if you’re totally innocent, you’ll have a hard time proving it without a lawyer who knows the system.

You’re also way more likely to say something incriminating if you don’t have a lawyer advising you about your right to remain silent. Anything you say to the cops or prosecutors can and will be used against you. Keep your mouth shut and let your lawyer do the talking.

How to Pick the Best DV Lawyer in Dallas

Not all lawyers are created equal, so you want to do your research to find the best one. Here’s what to look for:

• Experience handling DV cases specifically. You want a lawyer who’s very familiar with Dallas courts and prosecutors.
• Good track record getting DV cases dismissed pre-trial.
• Strong negotiation skills to get charges reduced.
• Trial experience in case your case does go to trial.
• Good rapport and communication skills. You want a lawyer who listens and who you feel comfortable confiding in.

Also important: pick a local lawyer who is familiar with Dallas laws, courts, and law enforcement. Each jurisdiction is a little different.

Google “best domestic violence lawyers in Dallas” and read reviews to find some top-rated ones. Set up consultations with a few lawyers before deciding who to hire. Many offer free consultations. During the consultation, pay attention to how well the lawyer listens and answers your questions. Do you feel confident they can defend you well?

How Much Does a DV Lawyer Cost?

The cost varies a lot based on the lawyer’s experience level and the complexity of your case. Simple misdemeanor cases can start around $2,000 – $5,000. Felony DV cases or ones going to trial can be $10,000+. Be wary of lawyers advertising really cheap rates – you often get what you pay for.

Compare rates of a few good lawyers to get an idea of price ranges. Also ask if they offer payment plans. Some lawyers allow you to pay in installments which helps spread out the cost.

Don’t let the cost deter you from getting a lawyer. Not having a good lawyer can result in huge fines, years of probation, or years in jail – which will cost you way more in the long run.

What Happens at Trial if the Charges Aren’t Dropped?

If the prosecution won’t drop or reduce the charges, your case will go to trial. Dallas domestic violence trials tend to take 1-3 days. Your lawyer will thoroughly prepare you to testify effectively. They’ll also call any other witnesses and present evidence supporting your innocence.

The prosecution has to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you’re guilty. Your lawyer just needs to create some doubt in the jury’s mind. If they can do that, you should be found not guilty.

But trials are unpredictable, so it’s best to avoid trial if possible. That’s why having an experienced lawyer who can get your charges dropped pre-trial is so important.

What Happens if You’re Convicted?

The penalties if convicted depend on the severity of the charges. Misdemeanor DV convictions can result in up to a year in jail. Felony DV convictions can result in years in prison.

Fines are common too and can be upwards of $10,000. You’ll also have a criminal record that can make it hard to get housing, jobs, custody rights, etc. And you’ll likely have to attend DV counseling or anger management classes.

That’s why avoiding conviction is so crucial. Even a misdemeanor DV conviction can upend your life. Don’t leave your fate to chance – hire a great lawyer to fight for you.

Act Fast to Protect Your Rights

If you or a loved one has been arrested for domestic violence, take it very seriously. Act quickly to hire an experienced Dallas DV attorney to start building your defense. The longer you wait, the harder it may be for a lawyer to get charges dismissed pre-trial.

During your initial consultation, ask about the lawyer’s track record with getting DV cases tossed out. Also discuss legal strategy, possible defenses, what to expect at trial if it goes that far, and what kind of plea bargain may be offered.

With an aggressive lawyer on your side, you have a great chance of avoiding jail time and clearing your name. Don’t leave your fate to chance – fight back with the best lawyer you can find!