Consequences of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence allegations can often arise from almost any situation, including heated arguments, situations where the parties are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, in child custody cases, and in divorce cases where one party is trying to gain a more favorable position.

Domestic violence carries serious consequences—both legal and non-legal. People convicted of domestic violence face various challenges after the verdict comes in.

·         Public employment: After a domestic violence conviction, it is unlikely for the convicted to be able to work in the fields like teaching, social services and nursing. Police and fire department jobs also may be unavailable.

·         General employment: Domestic violence offenders often find it difficult to find a job—period—because of the stigma associated with the crime.

·         Public records: Anyone can look through public records. A neighbor might find out about a domestic violence conviction. A potential employer might, as well. Public records are public. Even if the record is sealed, the conviction remains on file.

·         Bad credit: Creditors often view domestic violence offenders as risky to loan money to.

In Ohio, these are the penalties you can incur for domestic violence.

·         Misdemeanor of the First Degree – Domestic assault, endangering children, menacing by stalking and protection order violations can all be Misdemeanors of the First Degree. Maximum punishments can include jail time up to 180 days, and/or a fine up to $1,000.

·         Felony of the Fifth Degree – Domestic violence charges that can be this degree of felony are violations of protection order or domestic assault. Punishments for this degree of felony can include imprisonment up to one year and/or fines not exceeding $2,500.

·         Felony of the Fourth Degree – Domestic assault, menacing by stalking and endangering children can all be punishable as felonies of the fourth degree. Penalties for these felonies can include imprisonment for up to 18 months, and/or fines up to $5,000.

·         Felony of the Third Degree – Violations of protection orders, sexual battery, assault and endangering children can be felonies of the third degree. These offenses can incur prison sentences up to five years, and/or fines not to exceed $10,000.

·         Felony of the Second Degree – Sexual battery and endangering children can be felonies of the second degree, and a conviction for these offenses can incur prison sentences up to eight years, and/or fines not to exceed $15,000.

For more information on sex crimes in Ohio, please visit http://www.criminalattorneycolumbus.com/CriminalDefense/DomesticViolence.aspx.