Dallas County Domestic Violence Lawyers

Few charges are more damaging to a person’s reputation and freedom than those involving domestic violence. Unfortunately, it’s not entirely rare for spouses, romantic partners, and others who qualify as having domestic relationships to make false accusations of violent actions. If you’re currently facing domestic violence charges, our dedicated Dallas County criminal lawyers stand ready to effectively represent you. Contact Iowa Defenders, PLLC today so we can get started working on your case.

Domestic Violence Lawyers: Here to Protect Your Reputation and Future

Even an accusation of domestic violence can severely tarnish a person’s reputation. That said, everyone is innocent until proven guilty, and with the right team of attorneys in your corner, you stand a far greater chance of reaching a favorable outcome in your case. Iowa Defenders, PLLC has extensive experience representing clients facing domestic violence charges in Iowa, and we’re here to put that experience to work for you as well.

Domestic Violence Defined

In Iowa, domestic violence is defined as any assault or physical harm inflicted upon a family or household member. This definition extends to current and former spouses, cohabitants, parents of a mutual child, and individuals in an intimate relationship.

Assault can include any act intended to cause pain or injury, any physical contact intended to be insulting or offensive, and any threat of such acts if it appears the aggressor has the ability to carry them out.

Understanding the scope of domestic violence under Iowa law is crucial, as it encompasses a wide range of behaviors beyond physical violence, including threats, harassment, and stalking. This broad definition aims to protect individuals from various forms of abuse within a domestic setting.

Penalties for Domestic Violence Charges in Iowa

Importantly, there are several different types of domestic violence charges, and their penalties also vary accordingly. The types and consequences of various domestic violence-related charges in Iowa are as follows:

• Simple Domestic Assault: This involves any act intended to cause pain or injury, any physical contact intended to be insulting or offensive, or any act that places another in fear of imminent physical contact that will be painful, injurious, insulting, or offensive. Penalties for this charge include a simple misdemeanor, which can result in up to 30 days in jail, a fine ranging from $65 to $625, and mandatory participation in a batterers’ education program.
• Serious Domestic Assault: This charge applies when an assault results in bodily injury or mental illness. The penalties for a serious misdemeanor include up to 1 year in jail, a fine ranging from $315 to $1,875, and mandatory participation in a batterers’ education program.
• Aggravated Domestic Assault: This occurs when an assault causes serious injury or involves the use of a dangerous weapon. An aggravated misdemeanor carries penalties of up to 2 years in prison, a fine ranging from $625 to $6,250, and mandatory participation in a batterers’ education program.
• Domestic Abuse Assault Impeding Breathing or Circulation: This type of assault is defined as an act intended to impede the normal breathing or circulation of blood by applying pressure to the throat or neck or by obstructing the nose or mouth. The penalties for this charge, classified as a Class D felony, include up to 5 years in prison, a fine ranging from $750 to $7,500, and mandatory participation in a batterers’ education program.
• Repeat Offenses: For individuals with subsequent domestic violence offenses, the penalties become increasingly severe. Repeat offenses can elevate a misdemeanor to a felony charge, potentially leading to longer prison sentences and higher fines.
• Violation of a No-Contact Order: This occurs when an individual contacts a victim against the terms set by a court-issued no-contact order. This is considered a simple misdemeanor and can result in additional charges and penalties beyond the initial domestic violence charge.

Contact Our Iowa Criminal Defense Attorneys Today

Don’t face domestic violence charges on your own. Hire a team of skilled Dallas County domestic violence lawyers who can skillfully represent you, every step of the way. Contact Iowa Defenders, PLLC today so we can discuss your case and begin building an effective strategy on your behalf.