If you've been charged with criminal threats, you should speak with a domestic violence lawyer right away. When you call Law Office of Michael L. Fell, you will be able to speak with an experienced lawyer who will listen to your case, explain your options, and assist you in determining the best course of action. Call us at (949) 585-9055 right now.

Allowing your words to be used against you without a fight is dangerous

The truth is that almost everyone has uttered something they later regretted while under duress. We are emotional beings, and when we are furious, anyone can get carried away and say things they don't intend. The bad news is that you could be charged with criminal threats merely for having an innocent outburst. If this happens, you should contact a domestic violence lawyer.

Criminal threats examples

If you've been accused of making criminal threats, it'll probably take more than an apology to put things right. If you threaten someone with violence, it could be considered a criminal threat if you:

• You made threats to kill or hurt the individual
• You issued a direct threat
• You either said it or wrote it down (this includes text or email)
• For a period of time, the victim had a reasonable concern for their safety

It's worth noting that you don't have to have the purpose or even the ability to carry out the threat in order to commit this offense. The only question is whether the victim was reasonably concerned that you would harm them.

A criminal threats conviction can result in serious punishment

Any domestic violence lawyer will tell you that the consequences can be severe. You might face a year in jail and fines of up to $3,000 if you are convicted of a misdemeanor charge. You might face up to three years in prison and fines of up to $10,000 if you are charged with a crime.

It's also worth noting that under the Three Strikes Law, a felony conviction for criminal threats counts as a strike. If you have a prior felony conviction, you may face further sentencing enhancements.

There is hope: you have a domestic violence attorney on your side

Yes, this is a terrifying and challenging scenario. You are not, however, alone. The goal is to get a good domestic violence lawyer who can help you defend the charges you're up against. The easiest method to do so is to call Law Office of Michael L. Fell for a free legal consultation at (949) 585-9055.