When you are facing domestic violence charges, you may have questions about what happens next and what to expect during an investigation. Before the Prosecutor can bring formal charges against you, they and the Police must have sufficient evidence for a grand jury to issue an indictment. The way they accomplish this is by conducting a thorough investigation.
Support exists for the alleged victim, but when you face domestic violence charges, you may not know your rights and who you can turn to for help. A Lawyer can help you navigate Boca Raton domestic violence investigations, support you, and fight for your rights. An experienced Attorney can ensure the Police and other investigators do violate your federal and state rights during the investigation.
What Happens During a Domestic Violence Investigation?
During an investigation into alleged domestic violence, Prosecutors and Police gather enough evidence to support criminal charges against someone. It is also how they determine what they believe happened and what the facts support. Domestic violence investigations in Boca Raton may be completed in one day or across multiple days.
The Police often begin by searching where the incident allegedly occurred and taking photographs of the scene and the people present. For example, they may photograph the alleged victim to document their condition after the incident. Further, the Police may interview the alleged victim, the accused person, and witnesses to understand what people heard or saw.
Rights During a Domestic Violence Investigation
The Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution gives a person the right to an Attorney and to remain silent during custodial interrogations. In other words, they typically do not have to answer questions posed by the Police once they assert their right to remain silent and have an Attorney. There are exceptions, however, such as when the accused reinitiates the conversation with the Police.
People accused of domestic violence will benefit from having Legal Counsel represent them during the process. A Lawyer can help them understand their rights and assist them in answering questions in a truthful way that also limits their potential liability. An Attorney in Boca Raton can also help keep dishonest Police Officers at bay to minimize their influence on a domestic violence investigation. An experienced Defense Attorney will also have some sway over the Prosecutor assigned to the case to get the best result possible.
What Happens After a Domestic Violence Investigation?
After Police and Prosecutors conduct the investigation, they review the evidence and determine if they want to pursue formal charges. It is important to retain an Attorney shortly after your arrest to give your Attorney the time and opportunity to speak with a Prosecutor before the formal filing of any criminal charges. We are often successful in getting Domestic Violence charges Dismissed prior to the case even going to Court.
Call an Attorney for Help During Boca Raton Domestic Violence Investigations
Having the proper legal guidance during Boca Raton domestic violence investigations can ensure you do not inadvertently admit fault or say something to jeopardize your rights. Police questioning can be intimidating, but an Attorney can help you weather the process effectively. Further, involving a Lawyer from Leifert & Leifert early on can help strengthen your defense and build a case in your favor.
Facing domestic violence charges can be challenging to do alone. With the help of an Attorney, you have an advocate on your side fighting for your best interests. A Lawyer can take steps to minimize the potential fallout of the investigation on your future. Reach out now to learn more about your options.
