Domestic Violence Attorney In Howard County, Maryland

Domestic violence cases are usually handled by a prosecutor trained in handling these specific cases and are taken extremely seriously in Maryland. Domestic violence cases are considered to be cases in which there is a relationship between the parties. It does not have to be a romantic relationship, but it is most often current or former couples, or family members. Often, the victim mistakenly believes it is their choice as to whether charges are filed. While an individual can go to the commissioner’s office and apply for criminal charges, the police can also file charges.

Further, it is a common misconception that the victim decides whether the charges are dropped or if the case goes to trial. In fact, only the prosecutor has the authority to decide the direction of the case. The state can force the victim onto the witness stand and compel their testimony. The only exception to this is when the parties are married and the spouse has never previously refused to testify in an assault case involving the same defendant.

Even without the victim’s testimony, the prosecutor can still go forward with the case using the remainder of the evidence. For example, there may be a 911 tape, witnesses, photographs of injuries, statements made by the defendant and other facts that can be used in court.

Therefore, it is very important that if you find yourself facing these allegations, you hire a strong and knowledgeable attorney, like the attorney at the Law Office Of Colleen M. Kirby, Esq., to defend and protect your rights.