At Philip Kim Law, we understand how quickly a domestic violence charge can turn your life upside down, often stemming from a single heated moment.
Georgia
Domestic Violence Lawyers
From immediate legal consequences to the emotional toll, the process can feel overwhelming and fast moving. Our attorneys step in to provide clarity, protect your rights, and fight to safeguard your future at every stage of your case.
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Our clients come to us from across Gwinnett County facing some of the most stressful moments of their lives – and we are proud to have made a difference.
Domestic Violence in Georgia
A domestic violence charge can change your life overnight, and it rarely starts the way people expect.
It begins with an insignificant argument, or built up irritation after a stressful day.
Words are exchanged, emotions run high. Maybe something gets thrown. Maybe it turns physical.
Then it happens: the police show up. One argument, accusation, or call to the police, and before you even have a chance to explain what really happened, you’re facing criminal charges, a no-contact order, and the possibility of jail time.
In Georgia, domestic violence cases move quickly, and the consequences can begin immediately. In some cases, you could be removed from your home, restricted from contacting someone you care about, and left trying to make sense of a system that feels stacked against you.
At Philip Kim Law, we understand how overwhelming this moment, and everything that follows, can be.
The uncertainty, stress, and emotional toll can cause everything to feel like it is happening faster than you can process it.
But one mistake, or accusation, should not define your future.
The lawyers at Philip Kim Law step in to help you regain control, guide you through the process with clarity, and fight to protect what matters most. We defend people against domestic violence charges with one goal: protect your future at every stage of the case.
What Does Domestic Violence Cover?
In Georgia, domestic violence is legally referred to as “family violence.” It covers a wide variety of situations that involve people in close relationships.
This includes:
- Spouses
- Former spouses
- Dating partners
- Parents
- Family members
- Individuals who currently, or previously, lived in the same household
Although domestic violence tends to involve two individuals, it is not considered a single charge. This charge can apply to several different criminal offenses, which depend on the circumstances of the case. So, what may feel like a single incident, can quickly turn into multiple charges with serious consequences.
Most Common Domestic Violence Charges
Given that domestic violence cases often involve multiple charges, it is important to understand the nature and implications of each offense.
Here are some of the most common domestic violence charges:
Simple Battery
(Family Violence)
This charge may involve any unwanted physical contact. This includes, but is not limited to: pushing, grabbing, or throwing objects. This charge can still be applied even if there is no visible injury that occurs.
Battery
(Family Violence)
Battery charges involve visible bodily harm, which includes: bruising swelling, or other physical injuries.
Aggravated Assault or Aggravated Battery
These charges are more serious in comparison to the simple battery and battery charges. These count against you as felony charges, and usually involve the use of a weapon or have proof of significant injuries occurring.
Stalking or Harassment
Actions that consist of repeated, unwanted contact, threats, or monitoring behavior can lead to additional charges.
Each of these different types of domestic violence charges carries its own penalties and consequences. And when the charges are classified as family violence, the consequences can be more severe.
How Domestic Violence Charges Can Impact Your Future
A domestic violence charge can have lasting consequences, well beyond the courtroom.
Of course, the immediate ones begin with the arrest, but once the anxiety and panic settles, many realize that the situation they found themselves in, can change the entire trajectory of their life.
For many people, the biggest concern is not just these immediate penalties, but how being convicted of these crimes could affect their future and future opportunities.
Depending on the outcome of your case, you may face:
- Jail time
- Probation
- Fines and court ordered programs
- A permanent criminal record
- Loss of certain rights
- Complications in family law matters, including custody
Why Choose Philip Kim Law for Your Domestic Violence Defense
When you are facing a domestic violence charge in Georgia, you should not have to navigate the legal system on your own. A single accusation can carry serious consequences, and making the right decisions early on can have a lasting impact on your future.
At Philip Kim Law, we represent individuals throughout Gwinnett County and the greater Atlanta area who are facing domestic and family violence charges. Our firm focuses on criminal defense and works closely with clients to understand the full context of their situation. We take a strategic and personalized approach to every case; starting with listening, and not just reading what is written in the police report.
With experience handling a wide range of criminal cases, we are committed to helping our clients protect their record, their reputation, and their future. If you or someone you care about has been accused of domestic violence, our attorneys are prepared to guide you through the legal process and stand by your side at every stage of your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
View All FAQsCan domestic violence charges be dropped?
In Georgia, the decision to pursue charges belongs to the prosecution, not the alleged victim. Even if the other person wants to drop the charges, the case may still move forward. However, an uncooperative or recanting victim can significantly affect the strength of the state’s case, and this is one factor your attorney will evaluate carefully.
Will I go to jail for a domestic violence charge?
Not necessarily. The outcome depends on the specific charges, your prior record, and the circumstances of the incident. Some cases are resolved through alternative sentencing, counseling programs, or negotiated agreements. Others may involve jail time, particularly where a weapon was involved or injuries were documented. An attorney can give you a realistic picture of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
What should I do if I have been accused of domestic violence?
Contact an attorney as soon as possible before making any statements to law enforcement. Avoid contacting the alleged victim, even if you believe the situation can be resolved privately. Preserve any evidence that may support your account, including texts, emails, or photos, and write down everything you remember about the incident while it is fresh.
Can I contact the alleged victim after being charged?
In most cases, a no-contact order is issued at the time of arrest. Violating that order, even with the other person’s consent, can result in additional criminal charges. Do not attempt contact unless your attorney advises that it is legally permissible.
Will a domestic violence charge stay on my record?
A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record. Georgia’s options for restricting or expunging a conviction are limited, which is why fighting the charge from the beginning (rather than accepting a plea without understanding the consequences) is so important.
Can a domestic violence charge affect child custody?
Yes, significantly. Family courts in Georgia consider criminal history, including domestic violence charges and convictions, when making custody and visitation decisions. Even a charge that does not result in a conviction can be raised in family court proceedings. This makes the outcome of the criminal case directly relevant to your parental rights.
How quickly should I contact a lawyer?
Immediately. Domestic violence cases in Georgia move fast: no-contact orders, arraignments, and bond conditions can all be set within hours of an arrest. Early intervention gives your attorney the best opportunity to protect your rights, challenge weak evidence, and shape how the case develops from the start.
Speak With a Georgia Domestic Violence Lawyer Today
When facing these types of charges, you are not just dealing with a simple legal issue. You are dealing with a serious charge that can change your life, in all aspects. When your future is on the line, you need more than just legal representation. You need an advocate.
Call now to schedule a free consultation or contact us to get started.
