Domestic Assault Defense Attorneys in Murfreesboro, Tennessee

According to statistics from the Crime in Tennessee annual report by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, about 69,665 domestic violence offenses were reported to law enforcement statewide in 2020. In the state of Tennessee, domestic assault involves any form of assault or violent act committed against a family or household member. A defendant convicted of domestic assault may be facing massive fines, lengthy jail time, a protection order, possible deportation, and other life-changing consequences.

If you have been arrested and charged with domestic assault, it is crucial that you retain a highly-skilled Tennessee criminal defense attorney immediately to craft your defense strategy. At McCarter | East PLLC, we are committed to offering knowledgeable legal guidance and comprehensive representation to clients facing domestic assault charges. Our team can review and investigate all the surrounding facts of your unique situation and determine your best defense strategy. As your legal counsel, we will fight aggressively to protect your rights and seek to refute the allegations against you.

McCarter | East PLLC proudly represents clients throughout Murfreesboro and Berry Hill, Tennessee.

Domestic Assault in Tennessee

Domestic assault can be described as any offense involving physical restraint, bodily injury, or fear of harm committed against a family member, household member, or intimate partner. According to Tennessee Code Section 39-13-111(b), “a person commits domestic assault when he or she commits an 'assault' offense against a domestic abuse victim.”

Pursuant to Tennessee Code Section 39-13-101, a person commits assault who:

• Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly cause bodily injury to another

• Intentionally or knowingly cause another to reasonably fear imminent bodily injury

• Intentionally or knowingly cause physical contact with another person in a way that may be considered extremely offensive or provocative.

General Provisions of the Law

According to Tennessee Code Section 39-13-111(a), domestic abuse victims can include any of the following:

• Adults or minors who are current or former spouses

• Adults or minors who live together or who have lived together

• Adults or minors who are dating, who have dated, or who have or had a sexual relationship

• Adults or minors related by blood or adoption

• Adults or minors who are related or were formerly related by marriage

• Adult or minor children of a person in a relationship

In addition to the domestic violence charges, a defendant may be charged with other crimes committed against the victim, such as child abuse, neglect, endangerment, or rape. A knowledgeable attorney can review the details of your case and enlighten you about the potential penalties and consequences of a domestic assault conviction.

Possible Consequences and Penalties

The potential penalties for a domestic assault conviction in Tennessee will depend on the severity of the allegations, the number of prior convictions, and other surrounding circumstances. If convicted, the possible penalties include:

Misdemeanor Domestic Assault

Domestic assault may be classified as a Class A or B misdemeanor.

• Class A Misdemeanor: This involves causing or threatening bodily injury to the victim. Punishable by up to 11 months, 29 days in county jail, and a maximum fine of $2,500.

• Class B Misdemeanor: This involves exhibiting an act that is provocative or offensive to the victim. Punishable by up to 6 months in county jail and a fine of up to $500.

Felony Aggravated Assault

The defendant may be facing aggravated domestic assault charges when it involves a deadly weapon, attempted strangulation, or results in serious bodily injury to the victim. This is a Class C or D felony.

• Class C Felony: Punishable by from 3 to 15 years in state prison and a maximum fine of $10,000.

• Class D Felony: Punishable by from 2 to 12 years in state prison and a maximum fine of $5,000.

Other Potential Consequences

Some other potential consequences for a domestic assault conviction in the state of Tennessee include:

• Loss of parenting privileges or child custody rights

• Loss of gun carry rights or the right to possess firearms

• A protection or restraining order against you

• Mandatory anger management classes

• Loss of employment

• Losing your eligibility to run for a public office

• Difficulty in securing employment

• Difficulties in getting public assistance, housing, professional and educational opportunities

• Possible deportation or inadmissibility into the United States (if the defendant is a non-U.S. citizen)

An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate every last detail of your case and seek to help you avoid these long-term consequences.

Possible Defenses

When facing domestic assault allegations, your attorney may fight your charges using any of these defenses:

• Self-defense

• Falsely accused

• Lack of knowledge

• Defense of others

• Defense of property

• Error during the investigation

• Consent or mutual combat

• Lack of intent

• Inconsistencies in the evidence

• The victim's behavior caused the violence

Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

Domestic assault accusations in Tennessee are very serious and could jeopardize your quality of life, reputation, future opportunities, and freedom. Moreover, trying to defend such allegations without skilled representation on your side could increase your risks of getting convicted and receiving the maximum penalties. When facing domestic violence charges, retaining an aggressive criminal defense attorney is imperative to protect your legal rights and help build your defense.

At McCarter | East PLLC, our attorneys have the experience and resources to defend and represent clients who have been accused of domestic assault. As your legal counsel, we can investigate your unique case and strategize an effective defense in pursuit of a favorable outcome. Using our extensive legal understanding, our team will help you navigate the Tennessee criminal justice system and represent you vigorously in every phase of the legal proceedings. We will fight zealously to defend your rights and improve your chances of a better tomorrow.