Every year there is a peak in the numbers of domestic violence calls that police officers respond to in Michigan over the holidays. There are a number of factors that contribute to this escalation, but no matter the circumstances, criminal charges for domestic violence are always serious and never get resolved by themselves.
During the holidays, people spend more time with family. For many, these family gatherings can be quite tense and emotions can be running high. There may be disputes over child custody or other complex issues that come up unexpectedly.
Additionally, with the stress and anxiety associated with some situations, alcohol usage is increased as well. The combination of family tensions and alcohol can lead to dangerous situations which involve domestic violence.
According to Michigan law, domestic violence consists of abusive behavior used by one person to dominate or control another between spouses, parents, couples, and others.
People who are charged with assault stand to lose a lot. Recently, boxing champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. was charged with domestic violence. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 90 days in jail. He also must pay a fine and perform community service. His reputation and career may also be jeopardized.
Mayweather has avoided jail time in the past for similar assault and battery charges in Michigan and Las Vegas. Prosecutors cited this and noted that he has not suffered any serious consequences and therefore should not be able to avoid punishment this time. He has received fines in the past and was ordered to undergo impulse-control counseling, but these alternative solutions have not appropriately affected the Grand Rapids, Michigan, native.
In some situations involving physical assaults or other forms of domestic violence, education and counseling can be more beneficial than jail time. It may also be possible to avoid having the charges go on a criminal record.
Being charged with abusive behavior is serious. If a person is charged with domestic violence, assault or battery, he or she may want to speak with an attorney who specializes in defense against these accusations.
Source: Fox News, "Boxer Mayweather Gets 90 Days in Vegas Case," Dec. 21, 2011
No Comments
Leave a comment