Knoxville Domestic Violence Attorney

Defending Against Domestic Violence Charges in Tennessee

While many crimes require that police witness the perpetration of an illegal act, domestic violence charges can be brought merely on the basis of an accusation, and accusers may not even live at the home in question.

You could be charged with domestic violence against victims such as:

• Spouses and exes
• Housemates
• Significant others
• Relatives
• In-laws
• Children of any of the above parties

Contrary to what you may think, violence and injury do not have to take place. Simply putting someone in fear of injury constitutes a domestic violence charge. Domestic violence accusations can destroy a person's reputation overnight. If you were charged with this crime, it is crucial that you immediately speak with a Knoxville domestic violence lawyer who knows how to protect your future. With over a decade of experience helping clients, the Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz is here for you.

Are you facing charges of domestic violence in Tennessee? Call the Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz today at (865) 896-9971 or contact us online to request a free consultation with our Knoxville domestic violence lawyer. We're available 24/7! 

Domestic Violence vs Aggravated Domestic Violence in TN 

Many domestic violence defendants are struck with the rude awakening that their charges were enhanced due to aggravating factors involved in their alleged crime. As a result, their domestic violence charges can be increased to aggravated domestic violence, both of which contrast with one another for various reasons. As such, let’s examine how domestic violence and aggravated domestic violence offenses differ.

What is Considered Domestic Violence in Tennessee? 

Domestic violence is referred to as “domestic assault” in Tennessee. Thus, if you commit assault against a family or household member, for example, you may be convicted of domestic violence. The law defines assault as:

• Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causing bodily injury to another
• Intentionally or knowingly causing another to reasonably fear imminent bodily injury
• Intentionally or knowingly causing physical contact with another, and a reasonable person would regard the contact as extremely offensive or provocative

What is Considered Aggravated Domestic Violence in TN? 

As if domestic violence charges weren’t serious enough, they could get worse. A domestic violence, or domestic assault, an accusation can be enhanced to an aggravated domestic violence charge. Aggravating factors, by definition, increase the severity or culpability of an act. This means that if aggravating factors were present during your reported domestic violence offense, the penalties you may suffer could be worse than those for a standalone domestic violence conviction.

You may be charged with aggravated domestic violence if you knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly committed an assault that:

• Results in serious bodily injury to another
• Results in the death of another
• Involved the use or display of a deadly weapon
• Involved strangulation or attempted strangulation

Our Knoxville domestic violence defense attorney will work to reduce your sentence by negotiating to eliminate the aggravating factors that were reportedly involved in your crime. It could mean the difference between spending over a decade in prison or getting released from jail after six months.

Penalties for Domestic Assault in Tennessee

Under Tennessee law, you can face the same penalties for general assault crimes. Additionally, you may permanently lose your rights to carry firearms, and you may have to pay an additional fine that funds family violence shelters. Subsequent convictions of domestic violence will also enhance those penalties.

Possible penalties for domestic assault:

• Class A misdemeanor - A $2,500 fine and/or 11 months and 29 days in jail or both
• Class B misdemeanor – A $500 fine and/or six months in jail or both

Possible penalties for domestic aggravated assault:

• Class C felony – A $10,000 fine and 3 to 15 years in prison
• Class D felony – A $5,000 fine and 2 to 12 years in prison

How to Protect Your Rights During Domestic Violence Cases

Navigating the complexities of domestic violence charges can be overwhelming. It's vital to understand your rights and the legal options available to you. At the Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz, we prioritize empowering our clients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. 

Here are key steps you can take to protect your rights:

• Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of incidents, including dates, times, and descriptions of events. This documentation can be crucial in legal proceedings.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Consulting with an experienced attorney can help you understand the legal implications of your situation and guide you through the process.
• Understand Protective Orders: If you feel threatened, you may be eligible for a protective order. This legal measure can provide immediate safety and restrict the other party's contact.
• Gather Evidence: Collect any evidence that supports your case, such as photographs, text messages, or witness statements.
• Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with local laws regarding domestic violence to better understand your rights and options.

By taking these proactive steps, you can better navigate the challenges of domestic violence cases and work towards a resolution that prioritizes your safety and well-being. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way.

Why Choose Our Knoxville Domestic Violence Attorney? 

At the Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz, we understand that facing domestic violence charges or navigating the complexities of domestic violence cases can be overwhelming. Our dedicated team is committed to providing you with the support and legal expertise you need during this challenging time. Here’s why you should choose us:

• Personalized Legal Strategies: We believe that every case is unique. Our attorneys take the time to understand your specific situation and tailor our legal strategies to best meet your needs.
• Compassionate Support: We prioritize your emotional well-being. Our team is here to listen, support, and guide you through every step of the legal process with empathy and respect.
• Proven Track Record: With years of experience handling domestic violence cases in Knoxville, we have a history of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. Our knowledge of local laws and court procedures gives us an edge in defending your rights.
• Access to Resources: Beyond legal representation, we provide access to resources that can help you during this difficult time, including counseling services and support groups tailored for survivors and defendants alike.
• Transparent Communication: We keep you informed at every stage of your case. You can count on us to provide clear and honest communication, ensuring you understand your options and the potential outcomes.

When you choose the Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz, you’re not just hiring a lawyer; you’re gaining a partner who is dedicated to protecting your rights and advocating for your future. Let us help you navigate this challenging time with confidence.

Contact the Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz Today! 

When you are falsely charged with a crime, it is natural to feel alone and frustrated. At the Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz, our criminal defense lawyers believe you deserve the chance to tell your side of the story and obtain the best possible outcome for your situation.

During your initial consultation with our firm, we will discuss what happened and take action to avoid your being subject to any protective orders or other undue consequences. The sooner you call, the more time our Knoxville domestic violence attorney will have to prepare an effective legal strategy on your behalf.

Contact the Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz online or give us a call at (865) 896-9971 today for a free consultation to get started on your defense with our Knoxville domestic violence attorney.