Key Practice Areas: Domestic Violence

KANSAS CITY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE LAWYER

Most states have a mandatory arrest policy for domestic violence cases.  If the police are called to a disturbance, it is highly likely that one or both parties are going to jail.  However, the mere fact that someone has been arrested and thrown into jail does not mean a crime has been committed. 

I am Eric Gamble, a criminal defense lawyer who represents persons charged with domestic violence or other criminal cases in the Kansas City Metro area including Wyandotte County, Jackson County, Johnson County, Shawnee County, Kansas City, KS Municipal Court, Lenexa, Overland Park, Olathe, Gardner, Leawood, Shawnee, Mission, Merriam, Mission Hills, Praire Village, Westwood, and Roeland Park.

In Kansas, Domestic Battery is defined as:

(1)   Intentionally or recklessly causing bodily harm by a family or household member against a family or household member; or
(2)   intentionally causing physical contact with a family or household member by a family or household member when done in a rude, insulting or angry manner.  K.S.A. 213412(a). 

Often times the mere allegation of physical violence or contact is enough to send someone to jail.  In addition, there may be a no contact order issued by the judge after a domestic violence charge has been filed.  This no contact order essentially prevents the “victim” and “defendant” from interacting or communicating with one another on any level.  This may cause deep strain between the parties because often times they will have children in common.  Never attempt to contact the “victim” as this may cause additional criminal charges to be filed against you.  Moreover, an allegation of domestic violence may make one subject to a civil Protection From Abuse (PFA) or Protection From Stalking orders (PFS).  Although PFA’s and PFS’s are civil in nature, a violation of the order can lead to criminal charges that may carry jail time.  Convictions of domestic violence crimes can affect one’s ability to seek or maintain employment, own or possess firearms, and may jeopardize their eligibility for student loans.

Needless to say, because of the complexity and severity of domestic violence charges, anyone facing prosecution should contact an experienced domestic violence attorney.  Many cases of domestic violence can be resolved by setting the matter for trial and forcing the prosecution to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.  A diversion agreement, anger management classes, counseling, and probation may be appropriate options to consider. 

As your attorney, it is my goal to receive the best possible legal outcome for your case.