Domestic violence charges can lead to very challenging consequences. The social stigma of domestic violence accusations can affect a person’s reputation and possibly also their employment. The penalties imposed after a guilty plea or conviction could include fines, orders of restitution, court orders limiting contact with the other party and even incarceration.
Domestic violence charges can also carry secondary legal consequences beyond those directly imposed by the courts. In some cases, domestic violence accusations can cost people their Second Amendment rights.
Firearm ownership concerns
An arrest or pending domestic violence charge does not necessarily trigger firearm-related consequences. However, any serious criminal conviction related to domestic violence can have profound implications for people who work in law enforcement, have security-related careers, have pursued a military career or use firearms recreationally, possibly for hunting.
Many people recognize that a felony domestic violence conviction could affect their ability to legally own a gun. What people may not realize is that even a misdemeanor charge or an alternate offense agreed to as part of a plea bargain could still be justification to restrict an individual’s future firearm ownership.
Federal rules prohibit firearm ownership by anyone convicted of any domestic violence offense, regardless of whether it is a felony or misdemeanor crime. Lesser offenses and crimes that do not contain the term “domestic violence” do not necessarily protect people from the loss of lawful firearm ownership or the risk of future firearm charges. Fighting domestic violence charges is the only way to effectively avoid all related consequences.
Those accused of domestic violence may need help understanding the charges they’re facing and the possible consequences of a conviction. A discussion with a lawyer can help people respond effectively to pending criminal allegations.