Family offense crimes are very serious charges. Family crimes may include things like charges of domestic violence, abuse, child abuse, sex abuse, endangering the welfare of a child, along with Child Protective Services allegations. The outcome of these matters not only affect your freedom and criminal record but they may also affect your ability to see and spend time with your children, return to your home if there is an order of protection in place, and have extensive consequences to your job and home.
Family offenses should only be handled by attorneys experienced in both family and criminal court. Only attorneys with this type of interwoven legal experience can best advise you of how your matter should be handled for the best possible outcome in your case. Often times, these cases are transferred to “IDV Court” Integrated Domestic Violence Court. In this court, criminal and family matters are heard in the same Court, often by the same judge. It is imperative that you hire a lawyer to represent you that is familiar and comfortable in the IDV Court system.
When charged with a family offense, experienced legal help should be sought immediately, before you are interviewed by a State agency or law enforcement, or as soon into the matter as practicable. The earlier that you involve an experienced attorney in your matter, the better the chance for the best possible outcome in your case.
If you have been charged with a family offense or child protective matter, or have been interviewed regarding a pending family offense matter in Onondaga County, call me immediately at (315) 474-5533. I offer a free consultation to review all the facts and circumstances of your matter so that I can best advise you proceeding forward.
