Stratford Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic violence charges are very serious offences in Stratford, Ontario, according to the Canadian Criminal Code. These crimes are considered acts of family violence and require the assistance of an experienced criminal lawyer who can protect your rights and expertly defend you in court. The Kruse Law Firm is a reputable firm that was founded by Michael Kruse, a criminal defence lawyer who has many years of experience in Ontario representing clients accused of domestic violence. Kruse Law Firm will provide you with the best possible defence in your case.

According to Section 718.2 of the Criminal Code, a domestic violence conviction against you can be raised to an “aggravated” offence depending on the nature of the crime. This is used for the purpose of sentencing when a domestic assault was perpetrated against a spouse, common-law partner or child who is under 18 years old.

There are different types of crimes that make up domestic assault crimes. A Stratford domestic violence lawyer can represent you in your case if you are charged with this crime. It is your best chance at a successful outcome in your case once you go to court.

What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence is any type of assault that occurs between people who are involved in some sort of intimate relationship. This doesn’t necessarily just mean between a romantic couple as it can involve close family members such as a child or parent.   Domestic violence is described as abuse or harm that is perpetrated by one person over another to physically or mentally harm or control that person.

Types of Domestic Violence

There are four distinct types of domestic violence:

• Physical assault, which involves forceful, unwanted touching like hitting, shoving, kicking, restraining and other types of force;
• Sexual assault, which occurs when one person forces sexual acts onto another without the victim’s consent or sexual acts on an accused’s child;
• Psychological assault, which occurs when a person uses forcible verbal threats, emotional abuse, intimidation and control over another individual; or
• Attacks against property and pets, which happens when a person uses violence against a victim’s property or pets.

Charges and penalties for domestic violence

If you are charged with domestic violence, the prosecution is required to prove those charges beyond a reasonable doubt. The victim may testify against you as well. Penalties for a conviction of domestic violence depend on the nature of the crime. A charge involving sexual assault or assault causing bodily harm can result in 10 years in prison, but for aggravated assault or where a child under 16 years old was sexually assaulted, the prison sentence can be up to 14 years.

Why You Should Retain Us

If you have been arrested and charged with domestic violence, it is a very serious matter that requires immediate assistance. You need to hire an experienced criminal defence lawyer who can build you a strong defence in your case. Kruse Law is one of the top law firms in Stratford for handling domestic violence cases due to the level of expertise of its lawyers. Michael Kruse has a rich background in criminal defence law and has over 30 years of trial experience in Ontario. He and his team of lawyers at Kruse Law will fight vigorously to defend you in your case and protect your rights.

Free Consultation

When you are facing domestic violence charges, time is of the essence. You need to get in touch with a skilled criminal defence lawyer immediately to get vital legal advice on the best course of action to take in your case. Contact Kruse Law Firm by phone or by filling out an online consultation form on the website at your earliest convenience.

Kruse Law Firm operates out of our offices in Kitchener, London, Toronto and Windsor to assist clients throughout Ontario.