Cobb County Domestic Violence Lawyer

Family Violence Charges We Defend

Marietta, Ga. Most domestic violence cases in Georgia are charged as “family violence” offenses. We defend:

• Simple battery and simple assault (family violence)
• Aggravated assault and aggravated battery (family violence)
• Terroristic threats
• Stalking and violating a protective order
• Criminal trespass and damage to property (family violence)

What Happens After an Arrest

In a family violence case, bond must be set by a judge, and it almost always comes with a no-contact order. That can keep you out of your home and away from your children while the case is pending. An attorney can ask the court to change those conditions.

Protecting Yourself While the Case Is Pending

• Follow every bond condition, even if the other person reaches out to you.
• Save texts, photos, call logs and the names of witnesses.
• Do not discuss the case with police or post about it online.
• Let your attorney handle communication about the case.

What a Family Violence Conviction Can Mean

Ranges set by Georgia law. Every case is different.

First family violence battery	Misdemeanor: up to 12 months and a $1,000 fine
Second family violence battery	Felony: 1 to 5 years
Intervention program	A court-ordered Family Violence Intervention Program, usually 24 weeks
Firearms	Federal law bars gun possession after a family violence conviction, even a misdemeanor
Your family	Effects on custody, visitation and protective orders
Your work	Background checks, security clearances and professional licenses

How Austin Checks the State’s Story

Before law school, Austin Nelson was a newspaper journalist and editor. He reads a police report the way an editor reads a story: looking for what is missing.

• Hear the whole story Arrests are made in minutes, often based on one account. We learn what led up to that night and what came after.
• Read every message Texts, call logs and social media often show what really happened between two people. We collect and review them.
• Check the 911 call We compare the 911 recording, body camera footage and photos with the report the officer wrote.
• Fix the bond conditions We ask the court to modify no-contact terms so you can go home, see your children and keep working.

Family Violence Frequently Asked Questions

Can the charges be dropped if the other person does not want to press charges?

Not on their own. In Georgia, the prosecutor decides whether a case moves forward, even if the alleged victim asks to drop it. An attorney can present the facts that support a dismissal or a reduced charge.

Can I go home after I bond out?

Often not right away. Bond conditions in family violence cases usually include a no-contact order. An attorney can ask the court to modify those conditions.

What is at stake?

A family violence conviction can affect your right to own a firearm, custody and visitation, your job and your record. Some repeat offenses are charged as felonies.

Can I contact the other person if they reach out to me?

No. A no-contact order applies to you, not to them, and responding can lead to a new arrest. Talk to your lawyer first.

Will I lose my right to own a gun?

A family violence conviction, even a misdemeanor, triggers a federal ban on owning firearms. That is one reason to fight the charge instead of pleading quickly.

How much does a consultation cost?

Nothing. Consultations are free and confidential, and payment plans are available.