Can Domestic Violence Charges Be Reduced? Yes, domestic violence charges can be reduced. However, the process takes some work. First, you need an experienced defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte on your side right away. Call one of our expert lawyers immediately at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential case review where you can discuss the specifics of your case.
One of the primary ways our defense lawyers get charges reduced is due to a prosecutor’s insufficient or unreliable evidence. This includes:
- Lack of Physical Evidence
- Unclear Police Reports
- Conflicting Witness Statements
Other ways a skilled Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can help get your domestic violence charges reduced include:
Defense Strategies That Can Lead to Charge Reduction
- Self-Defense: This is one of the primary affirmative defenses our talented lawyers use in domestic violence charges. If we can prove you acted in self-defense or in the defense of others, the charges might be reduced or even dismissed.
- Lack of Intent: If the alleged incident was accidental or you did not intend to cause harm, the charges could be reduced to disorderly conduct or a similar lesser charge.
- False Accusations: If we can show that the allegations against you were false or exaggerated, this can weaken the prosecution’s case and essentially force their hand to reduce or dismiss the charges.
Negotiations with Prosecutors
The Combs Waterkotte domestic violence defense lawyers can negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charges from a more severe felony to a lesser offense, perhaps a misdemeanor. This could happen if:
- There’s weak or contradictory evidence.
- Witnesses, including the victim, are unwilling to testify or cooperate.
- The injuries are minor or the situation was a one-time event.
First-Time Offenders
If you have no prior criminal record, especially in less severe domestic violence or assault cases, you may be eligible for a reduction in charges or alternative sentencing options like probation, diversion programs, or counseling rather than jail time.
Plea Bargaining
In certain cases, your defense lawyer and the prosecutor might agree to a plea bargain where you plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence. The Combs Waterkotte legal team only acts on your best behalf. We would suggest an ideal course of action, but you would have the final say.
This type of plea bargaining is common when:
- The incident was relatively minor and/or involved mitigating circumstances.
- The prosecution is unsure they can win a conviction at all.
- You have no prior criminal record.
Can Domestic Violence Charges Be Reduced?
While domestic violence charges are serious, there are always avenues for reducing them with the knowledgeable defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte. Our legal team can assess your case and advocate for reduced charges, especially if there are weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, evidence, or mitigating factors surrounding the alleged incident.
Call Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a free, no-obligation consultation.
