You should get in touch with a domestic violence attorney as soon as possible if you are facing criminal threats charges. You can consult with a qualified lawyer at Law Office of Michael L. Fell who will listen to your situation, explain your alternatives, and guide you toward the best course of action. Call us at (949) 585-9055 right away.

Do not go without a fight if your words are used against you

The truth is that almost everyone has made a rash statement that they afterwards wish they hadn't said. We are emotional beings, and anyone can lose control and say things out of anger that they don't really mean. The bad news is that you might be accused of making criminal threats even if you simply had an innocent outburst. If this occurs, you should consult a domestic violence lawyer.

Typical criminal threats

It will probably take more than simply an apology to make things better if you are accused of making criminal threats. It may be illegal to threaten someone with violence if you do any of the following: you made a threat to hurt or kill the target, you issued a precise threat, either vocally or in writing, you made your point (this includes text or email), and the victim had a legitimate concern for their safety at one point.

It should be noted that for this offense, it is not necessary that you had the ability or even the intent to carry out the threat. The only question that matters is whether the victim had a legitimate fear that you would harm them.

Potential penalties in the event of criminal threats

Any domestic violence attorney will tell you that the penalties could be severe. A misdemeanor conviction might result in up to three thousand dollars in fines and a year in jail. If you are found guilty of a felony, you could spend up to three years in jail and pay up to $10,000 in fines.

Remember that under the Three Strikes Law, a felony conviction for making criminal threats also counts as a strike. This implies that you can be subject to further sentencing enhancements if you have a criminal history.

You have a domestic violence lawyer on your side, which is good news

Yes, this is a scary and challenging position. But you're not by yourself. Finding the best domestic violence lawyer who can assist you in defending against the allegations you face, is essential. Calling Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 for a free legal consultation is the most effective way to achieve that.