The Criminal Defense Law Center of
West Michigan

Domestic Violence Lawyer: Expert Legal Aid When You Need It Most

Expert Legal Support for Domestic Violence Charges - Shawn Haff offers specialized legal representation for those facing domestic violence charges. His approach is tailored to protect your rights and ease the stress of legal proceedings. Contact Shawn Haff for a personalized defense strategy that makes a difference in your case.

Domestic Abuse Lawyer: The Importance of Choosing The Right Attorney

Facing domestic violence charges without expert legal help can leave you overwhelmed, stressed, and at risk of unfair treatment in the legal system. Not securing specialized representation could mean not having your voice heard or your rights fully protected.

The stakes are high, impacting your personal and professional life. Shawn Haff offers the compassionate, skilled defense you need to navigate these challenges and ensure your side is fairly represented.

Top Domestic Violence Law Firm: Delivering Compassionate, Effective Legal Solutions

With Shawn Haff, you're not just getting a lawyer; you're gaining an advocate dedicated to protecting your rights. His expert legal representation, focus on reducing your stress, and commitment to fair representation in the legal system form the pillars of his service.

These benefits are not just promises, but a pathway to a more secure future in your legal journey.

Expert Legal Representation

Stress Reduction

Fair Representation

Gain access to Shawn Haff’s specialized legal knowledge in domestic violence cases.

Feel less overwhelmed with a trusted lawyer handling your case, providing peace of mind.

Ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected in the legal system.

Domestic Violence Lawyer Grand Rapids MI: Your Trusted Partner in Legal Challenges

If You're In Trouble

As your legal guide, Shawn Haff deeply understands the stress and uncertainty of facing domestic violence charges. His empathetic approach ensures you feel heard and supported throughout your legal journey. With extensive experience in handling domestic violence cases, Shawn demonstrates authoritative expertise in navigating the complexities of the legal system. His track record of successfully defending clients shows his commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes, positioning him as a trusted ally in safeguarding your rights and future.

Best Domestic Violence Lawyer: Strategic Legal Action for Your Case

Facing legal challenges can be daunting, but with Shawn Haff, the path to effective defense is clear and straightforward.
Our three-step process is designed to make your experience as seamless as possible. From your initial consultation to the development and implementation of your defense strategy, Shawn is committed to guiding you through each phase with expertise and care. Here's how you can easily start your journey towards a strong legal defense.

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How Shawn Can Help You: Insights from a Seasoned Domestic Violence Lawyer

As a criminal defense lawyer based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Attorney Shawn Haff understands that facing domestic violence criminal charges can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. Thankfully, Criminal Defense Lawyer Shawn Haff is here to offer his expertise and support to help you navigate through the legal system and overcome the challenges you may be facing in West Michigan courtrooms.
Shawn will provide you with strong legal representation, conduct a thorough and detailed investigation and develop effective defense strategies tailored to your unique case. Shawn is dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for your freedom. Shawn has handled a vast amount of domestic violence charges, with outstanding results for his clients.
One of the keyways Shawn helps his clients is by thoroughly examining the evidence against them and identifying any weaknesses or inconsistencies. This allows me to build a strong defense and challenge the prosecution's case. Attorney Shawn also have a deep understanding of the criminal justice system and have developed relationships with prosecutors and judges, which can be beneficial in negotiating for reduced charges or penalties.
Success for Shawn's clients means achieving the best possible outcome for their case. This could include having charges dropped, negotiating a plea deal for reduced charges or penalties, or winning a not guilty verdict at trial. Shawn will strive to provide his clients with peace of mind and the best possible chance for a positive outcome.
As Grand Rapid's Michigan's best domestic violence defense lawyer, Shawn is committed to providing his clients with personalized attention and support throughout the entire legal process. Shawn knows the stress and uncertainty that comes with facing criminal charges, and he will guide you every step of the way. Shawn will listen to your concerns, answer any questions you may have, and keep you updated on the progress of your case.
In addition his legal expertise, Shawn brings empathy, compassion, and a non-judgmental approach to my practice. Shawn treats his clients with dignity and respect, regardless of the accusations against them. He is committed to fighting for justice and protecting the rights of my clients, no matter the circumstances.
Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. With my experience, dedication, and personalized approach, Shawn knows he can help you overcome your legal challenges and achieve a successful resolution. Don't face your criminal charges alone, let me be the advocate and ally you need in your corner. Contact me today to schedule a consultation and see how Shawn can help you at 616-438-6719.

Common Fears

Our Answer

 

1. Fear of Unfair Representation 

 

 

2. Complexity of Legal Procedures

 

 

3. Concerns Over Legal Costs

 

 

4. Doubts About Case Outcome

 

 

5. Worry About Confidentiality and Privacy

 

 

Shawn Haff ensures each client receives fair, unbiased representation, with a focus on presenting your side of the story effectively.

Shawn simplifies the legal process, guiding you through each step with clear explanations and a well-planned defense strategy.

We offer transparent pricing and can discuss financial arrangements to accommodate different budgets, ensuring affordability.

Shawn’s track record of successful case handling provides reassurance of his commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes.

Client confidentiality and privacy are paramount, with all communications and case details handled with the utmost discretion.

 

 

Best Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers
Grand Rapids, Michigan

Domestic Violence charges sometimes arise out of situations that unexpectedly spiral out of control – such as a passionate argument between a husband and wife, or a misunderstanding with a boyfriend or girlfriend.

These criminal charges are serious and never go away by themselves because prosecutors have a lot of contempt for those who abuse their spouse violently in Grand Rapids, Michigan and all West Michigan courts. 

 

Anyone being charged with domestic violence has a lot to lose: the respect of your family, friends, child, your job or prospects for future employment, and even your freedom. A good domestic violence lawyer can win your case or mitigate the damages of a conviction for domestic violence. 

Click any link below to scroll to a specific charge:

When it comes to being arrested to a domestic violence accusation, Attorney Shawn Haff knows that sometimes the accused is innocent of the charges and didn’t do it! Unfortunately, if an individual gets upset, all they have to do is call the police and say that they were assaulted, battered or threatened by a past or current significant other. If this happens in Grand Rapids, MI, it is very likely that police will show up and arrest supposed perpetrator. Domestic Violence Lawyer Shawn Haff knows how to fight for his clients and get the best results possible. 

If you or someone you love was arrested by a false claim of spousal abuse from a former partner, who only called the police because they wanted to seek revenge or get you in trouble then you have to get an expert criminal defense attorney by your side right away! The Best Domestic Violence Lawyer for you is Shawn James Haff.  Criminal Defense Lawyer Shawn Haff practices law in Kent County, Ottawa County and all counties in West Michigan. Getting the best results possible is something that must be fought for! When the stakes could not be higher, Shawn has produced real results.

Get A Free Case Strategy Session

Michigan Domestic Violence Laws

Under Michigan law, domestic violence is abusive behavior – physical, sexual, etc, used by one person to dominate or control another. Domestic relationships are those between spouses and former spouses, people in dating relationships, couples with children in common, and residents and former residents of the same household. If you are facing possible criminal charges related to domestic assault, you need to call Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Shawn Haff now at 616-438-6719. The call is free!

What Is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence  assault and battery that happens between you and a spouse, child, girlfriend/boyfriend a roommate and someone you are dating.  Attorney Shawn Haff has seen many times throughout his long career as a defense lawyer that domestic violence cases are chalked full of emotion.  Shawn looks at these cases by focusing on the facts that will hold up in court.  Shawn is an expert domestic violence defense lawyer, who will work had to get you the best results possible. 

When my clients come to me to be their lawyer with domestic violence cases, they mistakenly believe these cases can only be ones with assaults that end up with injuries that are visible. However, this is just one kind of abuse and there are other kinds of abuse such as: Verbal Abuse, Sexual Abuse, and isolation. 

Examples of behavior that is abuse and that can lead to these charges being filed against you include:

  • Pushing
  • Shoving
  • Slapping
  • Forced sex
  • Misuse of telephone
  • Stalking
  • Battery
  • Threats
  • Punching
  • Acts of intimidation
  • Marital rape
  • Kicking
  • Assault
  • Sexual abuse
  • Biting
  • Choking

When people come to our lawyers with domestic violence cases, we continually hear from our clients about how the victim didn’t want to press charges in their case. This is typical and expected in an abusive relationship. Many victims are pressured into trying to get these charges dropped by their spouse or relative who are usually the defendants in these cases. The victims in these cases can be victims who have been abused so much that they think it is normal to be beaten and abused.

Prosecutors in Grand Rapids, Michigan will typically try to get victims to plead guilty in these kinds of cases knowing that the victim will not show up to court or that a husband or wife won’t testify in court against the defendant. Do not fall victim to this pressure by local West Michigan prosecutors! Our skilled criminal defense lawyers know what tools to use, in order to keep our clients from being bullied by zealous prosecutors and attorneys. The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan has a lawye

We understand that in many cases our clients are not guilty. We have seen so-called victims make up stories of abuse to get revenge on the defendant. Rest assured, we will not rest if you are innocent until you get your case dismissed or we get you a “not guilty” verdict at trial. Our best domestic violence lawyer will get you results!

The punishment for a first offense domestic violence charges in all West Michigan courts is 93 days in jail. We have never had a client get 93 days for a first offense conviction.

These charges are aggressively prosecuted in Michigan, all major cities in the state like Grand Rapids and Kentwood, even when the alleged victims withdraw their complaints. Contact our Domestic Violence Attorney Shawn Haff for the help you need when facing these serious charges. 

Domestic Violence Criminal Charge First Offense

The Penalty for this misdemeanor charge is up to 93 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. In many cases, people convicted of this charge are giving 12 months of probation and communitiy service. If you retain a skilled criminal defense attorney, it is very unlikely that you will face any jail time. 

Domestic Violence Criminal Charge Second Offense

The penalties for Domestic Violence Second Offense in Michigan are seriously tougher, including up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1000.00.   

The Michigan Domestic Violence Second Offense statue reads:

An individual who commits an assault or an assault and battery in violation of subsection (2), and who has previously been convicted of assaulting or assaulting and battering his or her spouse or former spouse, an individual with whom he or she has or has had a dating relationship, an individual with whom he or she has had a child in common, or a resident or former resident of his or her household, under any of the following, may be punished by imprisonment for not more than 1 year or a fine of not more than $1,000.00, or both…”    

A person who is charged with Domestic Violence Second Offense cannot receive the deferral deal under MCL 769.4a:

“[t]here shall be only 1 discharge and dismissal under this section with respect to any individual.” In other words, a person can only get 769.4a once in their lifetime.

If you plead to or were found guilty of this charge before but never got MCL 769.4a, then you have been “convicted” of an “assaultive crime” in the past.

It should also be noted that there is no statute of limitations when it comes to using past convictions against someone being charged with a Michigan Domestic Violence Second Offense. We have seen clients charged with a 2nd domestic violence charge based on a prior conviction from 20 years ago.

An individual who is convicted is still guilty of a misdemeanor, but the maximum possible Jail time increases FOUR TIMES to 1 year in Jail. The fine is up to $1,000.00.

It is true, you can get locked-up in Jail for an entire year for this offense. You could also be ordered to participate in “Work Release,” where you are allowed to go to work or school, but must spend the nights and weekends in the County Jail. Rarely do people get the maximum jail time possible when it comes to this charge. However, jail time is a distinct possibility when someone is convicted for a Michigan Domestic Violence Second Offense.

Felony Domestic Violence

Michigan Felony Domestic Violence charges are serious crimes that require you to get an attorney on your side ASAP!  It should be noted that this charge is also commonly called a Domestic Assault charge, as well as a DV charge – they all refer to the same Michigan Assault crime contained in MCL 750.81(2).  

  • If, at your Arraignment, if you were told that the offense was punishable by up to 93 days in Jail and/or a fine of up to $500.00, you’re facing a Domestic Violence Misdemeanor.
  • If at your Arraignment, the Magistrate or Judge told you that the offense was punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.00, you’re facing either Domestic Violence 2nd Offense or Aggravated Domestic Violence.
  • If you’ve never been arrested for or faced a Domestic Violence charge before, you’re facing a Domestic Violence Misdemeanor.
  • If you were previously convicted of Domestic Violence or an Assault on a spouse, girlfriend/boyfriend, or housemate 2 or more times in the past (whether or not you got a deferral under MCL 769.4a), you’re probably a Michigan Felony Domestic Violence charge and now facing up to 5 years in prison.

Aggravated Domestic Violence

A person may face a charge of aggravated domestic violence when the victim is seriously injured. The injury would require medical attention. If a person used a weapon while engaging in a domestic assault, the charge could be raised to a felonious assault.

An aggravated domestic assault first offense is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both. A second aggravated domestic assault offense is a felony, punishable by 2 years in prison, a fine of up to $2,500, or both.

Domestic Violence impacts the lives of victims, perpetrators, and children

What You Must Know About Domestic Violence Charges

The justice system in Michigan is aggressive in arresting and prosecuting people accused of domestic assault.

Here are some examples from Michigan law that show how aggressive Michigan is in prosecuting people on these charges:

  • Typically, the police must get an arrest warrant that is authorized by a judge or magistrate.  However,  when it comes to this type of charge, the police can arrest a person immediately.  A police officer only needs to have reasonable cause to believe an assault happened against a spouse to make a legal arrest.
  • In cases of domestic assaults, a prior conviction is more freely admissible in court. The general rule of thumb under the rules of evidence is that prior convictions are not allowed into evidence to prove guilt. However, there is an exception for domestic violence convictions.
  • For Assault and Battery charges, the normal penalty is 93 days in jail. It doesn’t matter how many prior convictions the defendant has for assault and battery. However, in domestic violence cases, the penalties increase based on how many prior convictions a defendant has.

False Domestic Violence Charges

If you or a loved have a domestic altercation, you should seek out expert criminal defense representation right away! While the state of Michigan does not have a mandatory arrest law, the police can still arrest you later on.

In fact, We have had numerous clients get arrested at their house, right after the police arrive to investigate an incident.

We’ve also have had numerous clients deal with false accusations. We have noticed that many of these claims rise up after a person has experienced a divorce, a breakup or been accused of infidelity.  In many of these cases, an accusation of domestic violence is simply a tool to be used to help someone get custody of the kids or better results in a divorce. Once you retain me to fight for your freedom and your rights, I will immediately begin doing the following:

  • I will verify all the details of your case.
  • I will contact witnesses in your case to see if their version of what happened matches what is in the police report.
  • I will give you a free case evaluation

Successful Domestic Violence Defense Strategies In Grand Rapids, Michigan

The next step is building the best defense possible. There are several defenses a domestic violence defense attorney can use for you.

  • You just didn’t commit the crime. The harm caused on the victim was done by someone else. We will look to see if you can use an alibi defense to prove you weren’t there and couldn’t have been done by you.

  • The other party is not telling the truth.  There are a lot of individuals who are in an unhealthy relationship. In these type of relationships, lying maybe very common. Shawn will examine injuries to see if they back your side of the story. Shawn will also examine the statement of the witness to see if there are inconsistencies that can be used to prove your innocence.

  • The harm was done on accident. In a lot of cases the defendant can not deny they were there. They also are not able to say they didn’t cause the harm. If you didn’t intend to cause the harm, you may have a valid defense. For example, say you are mad about the outcome of a football game and storm out of the family room. While doing so, you knock someone done on accident causing them harm. Another example might be where you are doing work on the house. A tool you are using gets dropped and does harm to your partner on accident. They may take it as malicious but proving it was an accident will help you beat your domestic violence charge.

  • You were defending yourself. We have represented numerous people who had to use force against their partner to keep them from getting injured. We have had clients who had to use force to keep their partner from punching or slapping them. If your partner has a history of violence or prior convictions for violence we will be sure to skillfully use that information to get you the best results possible.

  • If the self-defense action involved deadly force, you will must show to the jury that you had a reasonable reasonable belief that your life was in danger. If you can not show this, then you must show the court that you had a reasonable belief that you were going to be seriously injured or sexually assaulted. You must be under a reasonable belief that the use of deadly force was immediate and necessary. 
  • Any self-defense claim must show the use of force was only what was necessary to protect yourself.  If you were justified by running over someone with a car to get away from being killed, it would not be justified for you to back up and run over the attacker a second time. 
  • A person does not have to retreat, escape or attempt to retreat or escape in order to raise a self-defense claim. 
  • Your self-defense case rests on your understanding of the situation as it happened. You claim reflect back and then decide that your life was in danger etc. There is no Monday morning quarterback. 
  • Minor threats can not be responded to with deadly force. If a 14 year old kid slaps you in the face, you are not allowed to pull out a gun and shot the person. 
  • The claims cannot be proven beyond reasonable doubt. If the prosecution does not have evidence that can prove you committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt, you can beat a domestic violence charge against you in court! 

Can You Keep This Domestic Violence Charge Off My Criminal Record?

Yes, if we can work out a deal where the prosecutor agrees to sentence someone under a deferral, this charge will be kept off the defendant’s record assuming he completes probation successfully. Once the defendant completes probation, their record will not show any conviction for this violent charge. There are multiple diversion programs out there we can get our clients. After you retain Shawn or one of his talented lawyers, we will go over the details with you and let you know what diversion program works the best for you and your situation. 

The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan is a powerhouse firm that won’t rest until you get the best results possible on your charges. 

Diversion Program For First Time Offenders In Grand Rapids, MI

If you are a fist time offender for a domestic violence charge, we can get a plea deal that will have the case dismissed after you complete probation. This plea bargain deal that we can get for our clients is under MCL 769.4a. 

Remember, this is only an option for first time offenders. 

This plea requires the prosecution and the victim to consent to the diversion program. You will not be allowed to plea no-contest, you will have to admit guilt in court.  Once you admit guilt, your plea will be withheld and there will be no proceedings during your period of probation. That period of probation will be determined by the court. We know the steps that can be taken to get you the least amount of probation possible. The requirements of probation will be determined by the judge of your case. 

These requirements may include anger management and counseling. You will most certainly be asked to test negative for drugs and alcohol. This usually includes marijuana in a lot of local courts here in West Michigan. We tell our clients when the probation officer says “Jump!” to reply with “How High?” Always maintain a good relationship with your probation officer. That will be a key factor to getting you off as quickly and successfully. 

The Consequences Of A Domestic Violence Charge

The impact of a conviction related to domestic violence can be detrimental. A conviction can ruin your reputation, your personal health can be affected. You will be facing large fines, management classes dealing with anger, terms of incarceration and you maybe ordered to pay restitution.  You could also have the following problems to deal with:

  • You may no longer be able to possess firearms
  • You could be fired from your job
  • If you are in the military or a police officer, you could face separate consequences that include losing your job. 

 

Anyone who has been charged with domestic assault or aggravated domestic assault will find the sentences given by judges will be harsher when there is a record for a similar prior conviction. These serious charges compel wise people to go with an experienced domestic violence attorney for help. 

Do not face any domestic violence offenses by yourself. These charges are scary to face by yourself. Seek immediate legal representation by calling an attorney like Shawn Haff to be your lawyer for your domestic violence case. 

Our domestic violence attorneys will assist you in every way possible. We understand that these cases deal with relationships and our domestic violence lawyers will determine the best defense possible for you. We will make sure you face no or little jail time for these offense and make sure you are proven innocent if you did not commit  this crime.  

Information Regarding Personal Protection Orders

Anyone seeking to get a personal protection order over a domestic violence dispute may file a petition with the family division of the circuit court. In Kent County the circuit court is located in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. In Ottawa County, the circuit court is located in Grand Haven, Michigan. The court may be asked to grant a personal protection order against a former or current spouse, a person whom the petitioner shares a child in common and a person who they were currently or formerly dating.

To obtain a PPO, the victim of domestic abuse must show that there is reasonable cause that the person who is abusing the petitioner needs to be restrained because they are likely to cause violence towards the petitioner. The Circuit Court will decide if reasonable cause exists based on the following factors.

  1. Documents, testimony, documents, or other evidence offered to support the petition, such as police reports and medical reports.  Physical evidence of abuse is not required as evidence when petitioning the court and
  2. Whether the individual to be restrained has previously committed or threaten to commit acts of violence.

 

Getting a PPO will not physically keep an abuser from engaging in more abuse, it does allow for an arrest from a police officer without a warrant when the law enforcement officer has reasonable cause to believe an abuser has committed abuse. A Grand Rapids domestic violence lawyer will be able to help you get a PPO and determine if it is in your best interest to do so. 

Ex Parte Personal Protection Order

In certain situations, a person may request an ex parte personal protection order. This means the person who is asking for the pro is requesting the court grant them a personal protection order without giving notice to the other party.

A judge will only grant this order if the affidavit filed by the petitioner makes a clear case that immediate and irreparable loss, damage or injury will likely happen by delaying the petition. Once this order is granted, then the respondent party is given notice of the petition and then a future date can be set.

Here are somethings that can be prohibited on a ppo order:

  • entering a building or house
  • attacking or beating the petitioner
  • threatening to kill or injure the petitioner
  • purchasing or possessing a firearm
  • Coming within a certain distance of the petition’s house or school or workplace.
  • Committing conduct that is considered stalking or aggravated stalking, and

Can CPS Take My Kids If I Am Accused Of Domestic Violence?

An investigation by Child Protective Services is one of the most stressful things in life. The goal and purposes of CPS are valid and noble, but the process can be a problem and it doesn’t mean that the parents who have been targeted have done anything wrong.

If you call Shawn about your CPS investigation, he can help you understand your rights and figure out the best way to handle your case. Consulting with Shawn does not mean you have done anything wrong or are guilty of anything. Let a legal professional allow you to make an informed decision.

There are numerous reasons why CPS starts an investigation. Many investigations by CPS result in no wrongdoing by parents being found. CPS many times gets anonymous tips that claim a child may be in danger of being physically abused. Teaches are required to report potential child abuse. If a child has a hematological disorder, this teacher is required by mandatory reporting statues to alert the proper authority.

After CPS has completed an investigation into the child’s medical condition and family home life, it can then close the case and not be required to take further action. Most CPS investigations resolve without removing a child from its family home.

A CPS investigation will require them to conduct interviews with family members that share your household. The investigation may include a physical and/or psychological examination of your child.  If the CPS investigation reveals concerns, a service plan will be created. This plan will give parents things such as access to counseling and various other forms of parental support. Dire situations may result in the child being temporarily removed from the house and that parents care. 

5 Different Types of Domestic Violence

Financial Abuse

Financial abuse does not leave a mark on a person’s face or body, but it is an extremely dangerous problem that people face when they are stuck in an abusive relationship. In a lot of domestic violence cases, victims are only able to get away from their abusers after they have saved enough money to do so in secret. This is very difficult to do because financial abusers keep such tight control over finances. A person is a victim of this abuse if they are not given money for food and clothing or medical expenses. These types of abusers often do not want their victims getting a job. 

Sexual Abuse

Examples of sexual abuse are rape, touching, harassment a person’s private parts without consent and other sexually degrading actions. Sexual abuse also takes place when a victim is forced to get an abortion. Being forced to have unprotected sex is another example of sexual abuse. 

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse is one of the types of domestic assault that is fairly easy to prove in court. A person who is being hit, punched, kicked, slapped or bitten have been physically assaulted.  The physical abuse does not have to result in a person going to the hospital or doctor’s office. The physical abuse does not require a person to show a mark of bruise.  All that it takes is offensive contact such as a shove by the victim’s spouse. 

Verbal Abuse

This type of abuse will rarely result in criminal charges being filed. Abusers will often say things that are designed to destroy their victims’ self- esteem. This type of abuse often goes hand in hand with other types of abuse in this list.  In many cases, the victim of domestic violence have kept the recordings of their abusers.  

Emotional Abuse

This type of abuse also rarely results in criminal charges being filed. This type of abuse also goes hand in hand with the other types of abuse in this list. Emotional abusers are tying to find a way to control and manipulate the behavior of their victims. The victim of emotional abuse who often deal with belligerence, massive mood swings and threats of suicide. 

If you are facing a domestic violence charge, call me today at 616-438-6719. I can help you get the best results possible when you are facing this serious misdemeanor charge. Do not wait, call me now!

We offer experienced and aggressive legal help for both civil and criminal issues related to Domestic Violence Charges in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Actual incidents or even the mere allegation of domestic violence (DV) can have both civil and criminal consequences. A simple allegation allegation will have a bad affect your custody rights. A mere allegation of domestic violence can have a negative impact on you employment, and divorce proceedings.

Attorney Shawn James Haff and the The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan are the Best Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers and Attorneys in Grand Rapids, Michigan. We also represent clients falsely accused of domestic violence (DV) by spouses who want to get an upper hand in a divorce. This strategy works!  You need to take the allegation seriously and defend yourself aggressively. If this is happening in your divorce case, our attorneys will do whatever it takes to vindicate you and protect your property, child custody and visitation rights.

The Judge Said Do Not Go Home, But My Accuser Is Ok With it

As part of bond conditions for anyone facing domestic violence charges, a district court judge is going to put a no contact order with the victim as part of the bond conditions. If you live in a house with the victim, you will not be allowed to go back home.  The only way that can be changed is if the judge changes their mind about the no contact order. 

If the accuser is ok with the defendant going back home, your attorney needs to be told that asap. Your attorney will need to let the judge know this and ask the judge to change the bond conditions. If the judge does not change the bond conditions, it is in your best interest not to go back home. If you get caught violating your bond conditions, you will very likely end up in jail. When a judge tells you not to do something, you do not do it unless the judge rules otherwise. 

Our Attorneys Fight To Unite Families Separated by Domestic Violence

What is a Civil Standby?

If there is a case of domestic violence between a husband and wife or two people who live together, it usually causes the person charged with an assaultive crime against their spouse to be forced to leave the house while the case moves forward. A civil standby is a legal process that allowed a person accused of assaulting their partner to get their items, such as clothing, tools, a tv, etc. without violating the not contact order or  bond conditions given by a judge.  A civil standby is where a police officers accompanies the accused to the house while the accused proceeds to get their items. 

We have also had success in getting no contact orders removed quickly during the normally slow criminal process. 

Can I Own a Firearm If I Am Convicted of Domestic Violence?

Once you have a conviction for domestic violence or assault on your record it is illegal under federal and state law to own a firearm. If you have any judicial order that relates to a domestic violence conviction you are not allowed to own a gun. In some cases, judge may try to seize any guns that a defendant may own. Thankfully,  you maybe allowed to recover your guns after a period of time.  If you have any questions related to this issue, you need to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney like Shawn Haff today. 

Strong Protection Against Domestic Violence Charges

Given the current climate in society, a domestic violence conviction can have  devastating the consequences.  Not only are the legal repercussions harsh but your reputation also takes a serious hit. This tough hit is many time not reversable. With so much on the line and the stakes so high,  you need to retain as soon as possible the best criminal defense attorney for domestic violence cases.

Shawn Haff has handled a vast amount of domestic violence cases during his career. Because of this, retaining Attorney Shawn James Haff, who is one of the top domestic violence lawyers in Grand Rapids, MI, is your best bet. If you are charged with domestic violence in Grand Rapids, you will need help from a five-star rated Domestic Violence Lawyer. Attorney Shawn Haff is the five-star rated lawyer you need. 

Our domestic violence defense lawyer will explain the complications associated with your case, he will show you the best defense to your case and guide you down the path you need to go to get the best results for you!  You can rely domestic violence lawyer Shawn Haff to fight hard on your behalf. Do not hire another lawyer without talking to Shawn first. Shawn gets amazing results for his clients. 

Expert Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in Grand Rapids, Mi

Attorney Shawn Haff has defended numerous people against Domestic Violence Criminal Charges in Grand Rapids, Michigan and all West Michigan counties and courtroom. Shawn knows how Prosecutor’s think about these cases and he knows the strengths and weaknesses of the Prosecutor’s cases inside and out! Shawn will not rest until you get the best results possible. Check out the results Shawn has gotten for his clients below!

How Are Domestic Violence Cases Handled In Michigan?

All misdemeanor domestic assault cases start and remain in the district court. If you are charged with felony domestic violence in Grand Rapids, Michigan, your charge will be elevated felony domestic violence case will be heard first in district court and then in the circuit court system. The county of incident is where you case will be heard in both misdemeanor and felony domestic violence charges. 

Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Our Grand Rapids defense attorney will work hard to clear your name and help you secure the best results for your domestic violence charge.  for your case. Grand Rapids Criminal Defense Lawyer Shawn Haff  who has represented numerous clients  in various courts in West Michigan. For a consultation with our domestic violence attorney, call Shawn today at 616-438-6719. 

As we know, domestic violence cases impacts every area of your life and a good domestic violence lawyer will preserve your future.  Our domestic violence defense lawyer will make sure you get the best results possible and  will reduce the problems in your life because of the criminal charges you are facing.  Book or call to schedule an appointment now!

The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan is one of the most reputed law firm with over 25 years of experience.  We are criminal defense lawyers that are well known and experienced CSC Lawyers Incorporating Service In Michigan. Apart from domestic violence and sex crime cases, they also have the best drunk driving attorneys. DUI or drunk driving cases generally cost a vast sum of money. Attorney Shawn Haff DUI lawyer costs  are fair for his oustanding service. for the best lawyers to advocate for you. Shawn and his team will observe and study your case. We will look at your case from all angles and ensure to build and effective strategy for your case. 

Example of Shawn's Amazing Results On Domestic Violence Charges

2018

Our client was charged with Domestic Violence in downtown Grand Rapids, MI. We were able to get our client a diversion program. 

2019

Our client was arrested for abusing his spouse in Hudsonville, Michigan. We were able to get the charges dropped. 

2020

A client of ours was charged with domestic violence at the 63rd district Court in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Again, Shawn was able to get the charges dropped. 

2021

Charges of assault and battery against our client’s wife were dismissed.

2022

Client was charged with domestic violence and after showing the prosecutor the strength of our case that charges were dismissed!

2022

Our client was facing a ten year felony related to domestic assault and we were able to get him a misdemeanor charge!

Can you risk going with an attorney who can’t get the results Shawn can? Anyone facing charges for this violent crime needs to get immediate legal help from a lawyer for domestic violence cases. 

After listening to your side of the story, our lawyer for domestic violence cases will develop the best strategy possible for your defense.  If you are facing criminal charges in Grand Rapids, Michigan or any other court in West Michigan, call Shawn today at 616-438-6719. Shawn Haff if the best domestic violence defense lawyer in Grand Rapids! The call is free. Will you be?  

Being the best Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers in Grand Rapids, Michigan, we will also help victims of abuse get  personal protection orders (PPO). We know the seriousness and urgency of your situation.  Our attorneys provide the kind of legal representation needed for either type of case. We are also experienced at protecting our clients against an abusive spouse. Our protection can be  in divorce and custody situations or defending you against criminal charges for spousal assault.  Let Shawn and his lawyers protect you and your children against an abusive spouse. If you want a good domestic violence Attorney, retain Shawn Haff today! If you want the Best Domestic Violence lawyer in town retain Attorney Shawn Haff now!

Kent County now has domestic violence court! Check out the link here!

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