Domestic Violence

If police are called to your house because of a domestic dispute, there is likely a chance that someone will be arrested. An arrest for domestic violence carries serious consequences, including the potential penalty of six (6) months in jail. Further, subsequent domestic violence convictions can result in enhanced penalties.

Who Is Included Under Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence can be between the following:

1. Current or former spouse of the accused, or a child of that person;
2. Current or former person living as a spouse with the accused, or a child of that person;
3. A parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, or someone similarly situated to the accused;
4. Current or former dating relationship with the accused;
5. Person with whom the accused has had a biological or legally adopted child.

What Defines Simple Domestic Violence?

Mississippi law defines domestic violence as (1) attempting or purposely, knowingly or recklessly causing bodily injury to one of the protected persons; (2) negligently causing bodily injury to one of the protected persons with a deadly weapon; or (3) attempting by physical menace to put the protected person in fear of imminent serious bodily harm.

What Are the Penalties for Misdemeanor Simple Domestic Violence?

A maximum fine of $500.00 and/or six (6) months in jail.

What is Felony Aggravated Domestic Violence?

Domestic Violence can become a felony charge if committed against one of the qualifying people and in the following circumstances:

1. Attempts to cause serious bodily injury to another, or causes such an injury purposely, knowingly or recklessly under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to the value of human life;
2. Attempts to cause or purposely or knowingly causes bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon or other means likely to produce death or serious bodily harm; or
3. Strangles, or attempts to strangle another.

Why Should You Hire a Lawyer Immediately for Domestic Violence?

Often, prosecutors have policies that do not allow for domestic violence charges to be dismissed or dropped even at the request of alleged victim, especially if law enforcement signed the charges. This means that regardless of your guilt or innocence, you could be prosecuted in court. Prosecutors are more willing to take your case to trial or to force a guilty plea if you are not represented by a lawyer. This is because some prosecutors often assume that just because you were initially arrested and charged, you must be guilty. You should immediately hire a lawyer who can investigate the charges, defend your rights, and be prepared to take your case to trial.

Why Should You Hire Us?

Attorneys Cameron McCormick and Bay Lawrence have handled hundreds of domestic violence cases throughout Jackson County, Greene County, and George County. These domestic violence cases include the city courts of Pascagoula, Ocean Springs, Moss Point, and Gautier. Check out our website for up-to-date case results and reviews.