Defending Against Domestic Violence Charges in Connecticut
Are you facing a domestic violence charge in Connecticut? It can feel overwhelming. You may feel confused, scare, or unsure of what your next step is - which is completely understandable. I’m Emily Shouse, a Connecticut criminal defense attorney, focused on helping individuals navigate some of the most stressful moments they have ever faced in their life, with honesty, compassion, and courage to be the strong advocate that is needed.
Understanding Domestic Violence Charges in Connecticut
In Connecticut, “domestic violence” doesn’t refer to a single crime - it is a category of crimes that applies to various offenses involving family or household members. This can include assault, threatening, harassment, a violation of a protective order, disorderly conduct, and more. When these alleged crimes occur between spouses, partners, relatives, or individuals that share a household, it can be classified as domestic violence.
Even a minor argument or misunderstanding can very quickly lead to an arrest when law enforcement is called. Once police are notified, they are required by law to make an arrest if they believe probable cause exists. This is true even if the alleged victim doesn’t want to press charges (this is often misunderstood because Connecticut law differs than some other states in this area of the law). This is what makes hiring a Connecticut criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible extremely important.
What Happens After an Arrest
If you’re arrest for domestic violence, you’ll likely have your first court appearance the very next business day. This is because in Connecticut, the judge must issue a protective order, which can temporarily restrict contact with the alleged victim or even require you to leave your home. There are 3 types of protective orders: 1) full no-contact with the alleged victim, 2) a residential stay-away (cannot go to the residence or workplace of the alleged victim), and 3) partial protective order, which means you can still speak to the alleged victim, but there are certain limitations to your interactions with them.
Having an attorney by your side at that first court appearance can make a real difference. I work closely with clients to explain every step, communicate clearly about what to expect, and start building a defense strategy immediately - from challenging the evidence to working toward reduced charges or dismissal.
Why Representation Matters
Domestic violence cases often involve highly emotionally-charged incidents and relationships that are far more complex than other cases. These types of cases involve complicated facts and laws. Prosecutors and judges take these cases very seriously, and penalties can include jail time, fines, probation, and long-term consequences that greatly impact an individuals employment, education, family life, reputation, professional licenses and more.
A defense lawyer’s job doesn’t begin and end with arguing in court - it’s protecting rights, reputations, livelihoods, and futures. I take a personal approach to every case because there are no two situations that are alike, especially when it comes to domestic violence cases. My goal is to help clients move forward with dignity and confidence, knowing their side of the story has been heard.
Get the Guidance You Deserve
If you’ve been charged with a domestic violence offense in Connecticut, don’t face it alone. The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the more options you have, and the more prepared you are.
You can contact me directly through my website or by phone or email for a free, confidential consultation. With me, you don’t get the run-around and you don’t get miscommunication. I pride myself on my approach of taking the time to listen, answer your questions, and helping you understand your best next steps. Because in my practice, every client deserves more than a defense - they deserve to be heard.
