Salisbury, Maryland, Domestic Assault and Spouse Abuse Lawyer
Domestic assault is a very serious charge. It can result in immediate temporary restraining orders against the accused. It can turn the tide in a divorce case or custody battle. It can ruin the accused's life.
And for just those reasons, sometimes domestic assault accusations are completely false.
I am Andrew M. MacDonald. During my ten years as an Assistant State's Attorney for Wicomico County, Maryland, I prosecuted domestic violence cases. Now I defend clients facing these serious charges. I know what it takes to win a conviction, and I know what defendants need to do to protect themselves.
I also know that not all accusations of spouse abuse are true.
There are always two sides to every story. While society and the law will jump to the defense of a spouse who claims to have been battered, we need to be mindful that, just as in accusations of child abuse, the accuser sometimes has something to gain. One must withhold judgment and wait to hear the other spouse's story. The first story you hear is not always the truth.
The legal charge for spouse abuse or domestic assault is "second degree assault." Violent family situations involve high emotions, and may often involve alcohol or drug use. One spouse may have a valid argument of self defense. There may have been a mutual affray, with both parties equally at fault, but one emerging unharmed. That is why "victims" sometimes recant, after the emotions have calmed and the adrenaline has worn off.
These cases may be complicated by claims for spousal immunity, and by the application of the Fifth Amendment. For spouses who wanted a moment's police protection but never wanted a prosecution, the fact that prosecution isn't wanted may not prevent the state from going forward with a case against you.
Claims of spouse abuse and domestic violence must be handled with great sensitivity. Much is at stake - a marriage, a family, the reputation and freedom of the accused.
I have handled both sides of these cases. I know how to mount an aggressive, determined defense.
Call me, Andrew M. MacDonald, today so that we can discuss the spouse abuse or domestic violence charges that you face.
Law Office of Andrew M. MacDonald, LLC
110 Baptist Street
P.O. Box 33
Salisbury, MD 21801
Phone: 410-341-7575
Fax: 410-341-4004
E-mail
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