Also referred to as domestic or spousal abuse, domestic violence refers to any physical or psychological harm inflicted by a significant other, an ex-partner or a family member. Perpetrated by men and women alike, domestic violence occurs in all cultures and across all social-economic boundaries.

If you are charged with domestic violence, dealing with the courts and trying to repair your family fallout can be difficult, stressful and humiliating.

Curtis R. High, Attorney at Law has extensive experience handling domestic violence issues with the utmost discretion, privacy and respect. He can provide you with aggressive, professional representation to help you get through the legal process efficiently so you can move on with your life.

Forms of Domestic Violence

While the term "domestic violence" typically conjures images of physical abuse, in practice, domestic violence can take on a variety of forms, including:

  • Economic deprivation
  • Emotional abuse
  • Intimidation and threats of violence
  • Sexual abuse
  • Stalking

Economic deprivation and emotional abuse (which can collectively be referred to as passive abuse) are not criminalized by law in North Carolina.

Domestic Violence Charges & Sentencing in North Carolina

Domestic violence charges can be filed as:

  • Misdemeanors: milder charges that carry less severe sentences, such as shorter jail terms, counseling, treatment programs, probation and/or fines
  • Felonies: more serious charges that usually carry harsher sentences. In the worst cases (i.e. when domestic violence results in death), defendants may be facing life-sentences

Whether a domestic violence charge is filed as a misdemeanor or felony will depend on:

  • The degree of injuries sustained (the more serious the injury, the more likely a felony will be filed)
  • History of past violence (first time offenders tend to get more lenient sentences)
  • If weapons were used

Domestic Violence Statistics

According to the Center for Disease Control and the U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Statistics:

  • Only about 33 percent of domestic violence incidences are reported in the U.S
  • Roughly 10 percent of Americans (about 32 million individuals) are victimized by domestic violence
  • About 90 percent of domestic violence victims are women
  • Over 66 percent of the domestic violence cases against women are committed by someone the women knew (as opposed to a stranger)
  • Approximately 31 percent of women will endure domestic violence by a significant other at some point in their life
  • Around 75 percent of domestic violence incidences reported to authorities are only phoned in after the victim has been separated from her (or his) batterer

Contact a Domestic Violence Attorney in Raleigh

If you are facing domestic violence charges, you will need an experienced criminal defense attorney fighting on your behalf. To schedule a consultation with an experienced lawyer in Raleigh, contact Mr. High today. During an initial consultation, you can:

  • Learn more about your legal rights
  • Find out more about the process associated with defending yourself against domestic violence charges
  • Get expert advice regarding the most appropriate manner in which to handle your case