Few plan for a domestic violence lawyer, but not having one can be costlier.
Domestic violence involves abusive behavior in a domestic relationship, impacting victims physically, sexually, psychologically, or emotionally.
Charges are expensive, affecting personal, professional, and well-being aspects.
A lawyer can provide legal support. Let’s explore the cost and value of a domestic violence attorney in this article.
How Much Would A Domestic Violence Lawyer Cost You?
The cost of a domestic violence lawyer varies due to several factors, but typically starts at $3,500 and can go up to $20,000.
Domestic violence cases are among the most serious, leading to higher fees due to the complexity and effort required for defense.
Additionally, many lawyers or law firms offer payment plans to help clients manage the expenses by paying in installments if the upfront costs are too steep.
Factors That Determine The Cost Of A Domestic Violence Lawyer
Several key factors play a significant role in determining the total expenses associated with hiring a domestic violence attorney.
While the cost may seem steep, it’s essential to consider that fines and penalties in such cases can be considerably higher and more severe.
Location Of The Court
Domestic violence lawyer fees fluctuate depending on the state and country. For example, hiring a domestic violence attorney in Las Vegas is more affordable than in Los Angeles, while Washington DC typically has higher costs compared to Denver for such legal services.
Experience And Expertise Of The Lawyer
Choosing a newcomer in the legal field will typically be more budget-friendly compared to hiring an experienced attorney with a proven track record.
As lawyers gain experience, their fees tend to rise, and the same applies to law firms, which often increase their consultation and court-related charges over time.
Previous Charges Of Domestic Violence
A prior domestic violence record can make it challenging for the lawyer to reduce charges or penalties. Cases with past allegations follow a different process, often resulting in higher costs and more severe consequences.
Prior Criminal Record
Having any criminal record, regardless of the nature of the offense, increases the likelihood of facing harsh consequences.
Your attorney will need to exert additional effort, which may result in higher fees for their services.
Whether The Domestic Violence Case Will Be Taken To Court For Trial Or Not
Certain cases can be resolved without both parties appearing in court, typically through negotiations with your attorney, resulting in a quicker process and lower charges. Conversely, if a trial involves multiple court appearances, lawyers are likely to charge more per hearing.
What Happens If You Do Not Hire A Domestic Violence Lawyer?
Domestic violence lawyers possess a deep understanding of the law, enabling them to predict case outcomes. Their knowledge and experience can be invaluable when facing domestic violence charges.
Consequences of domestic violence include:
- Up to seven years in prison for visible victim wounds, or up to four years for domestic violence battery charges.
- Fines of up to $10,000.
- Potential restrictions on contacting or seeing the victim.
- Mandatory counseling for up to six weeks.
- Risk of job loss.
An attorney can reduce fines and penalties, while not hiring one may lead to multiple charges. Additionally, without a lawyer, you may miss essential counseling. In the end, not hiring an attorney can cost you more, so don’t let the fee deter you.