Murfreesboro Domestic Violence Lawyer

Defending Clients Against Domestic Violence & Harassment Charges in Tennessee

Domestic violence cases may be charged as assault, battery, aggravated assault, or a combination of assault and battery. Depending on the conduct in question, the charges could be pressed as a misdemeanor or felony. Due to strict Tennessee laws that are meant to protect alleged victims from further immediate harm, if a police officer is brought to a location in response to a domestic violence case, an arrest must almost always be made.

Have you been arrested and charged with a domestic violence crime but believe the charges are unfounded? Regardless of the evidence or lack thereof, your future has already been jeopardized just by the accusation.

Do not hesitate to contact Santel | Garner and our Murfreesboro domestic violence attorneys online or call (615) 987-0268 as soon as possible to get the experienced and capable legal representation you need.

Understanding the Criminal Process for Domestic Violence Charges With Our Domestic Violence Attorneys in Murfreesboro

Facing domestic violence charges in Murfreesboro can quickly become overwhelming. The process typically starts with a report to law enforcement, which often leads to an immediate arrest if officers determine there is probable cause based on their investigation. If arrested, you will likely be transported to the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center and will have your initial appearance—called an arraignment—in front of a Rutherford County judge. 

During your arraignment, you will be informed of the official charges, and the court will set bail and other pretrial conditions, including any protective orders. Because court dates move rapidly in domestic violence cases, it is vital to retain a knowledgeable Murfreesboro domestic violence attorney before your first appearance.

The local legal process is expedited for domestic violence cases because of their sensitive nature. Judges and prosecutors in Rutherford County treat these matters with a sense of urgency to protect potential victims. Throughout the pretrial phase, you may be required to comply with court-ordered restrictions, such as no-contact orders, GPS monitoring, or ongoing status hearings. It is critical to follow the guidance of your attorney to avoid accidentally violating these conditions. 

At Santel | Garner, we apply our in-depth knowledge of the Murfreesboro court system and Tennessee laws to protect our clients’ rights while providing the clear communication and guidance needed at every stage of your defense.

Protective Orders & Relief Available to Alleged Victims in Tennessee

Protective orders, also known as Orders of Protection, play a significant role in many domestic violence cases in Murfreesboro and throughout Tennessee. At the initial hearing, a judge may grant a temporary or extended protective order to the alleged victim, even if the accused has not yet been convicted of any crime. These orders generally prohibit any contact between the accused and the alleged victim and may require the accused to leave shared residences or avoid certain locations, workplaces, or schools. In Rutherford County, the court takes violations of protective orders extremely seriously, and any breach can lead to additional criminal charges, fines, or time in custody.

The process of petitioning for or contesting a protective order involves a hearing where both parties may present evidence and call witnesses. While a protective order is a civil action, it frequently intersects with ongoing criminal cases and can impact matters such as temporary child custody or access to property. The support of a dedicated domestic violence lawyer in Murfreesboro is crucial at this stage. 

Our domestic violence attorneys in Murfreesboro at Santel | Garner understand how these orders affect daily life, including parental rights and housing, and provide effective advocacy for both seeking to challenge or enforce an order of protection in the local courts.

Domestic Violence Charges & Penalties in Tennessee

Domestic violence is defined as an act of violence, intimidation, or the attempt to do either against someone who shares a close relationship with the offender. Violence can include inflicting or attempting to inflict physical injury, placing someone in physical restraints, posing a reasonable threat that causes the victim to become fearful, or doing malicious damage to personal property.

A domestic relationship that can constitute domestic violence charges includes:

• Spouse or former spouse
• Someone related by marriage or blood
• Roommate
• Someone with whom the offender shares a child

If someone is convicted of domestic violence, they can be penalized with jail time and high fines. There are also unique forms of punishments associated with such convictions, such as court-ordered counseling, protective orders placed against the offender, losing visitation rights, and the removal of the right to own or possess a firearm.

Fighting False Domestic Violence Charges in Tennessee

Many people accused of domestic violence do not understand why the charges were filed in the first place. This is sometimes due to alleged victims falsifying information or relying on exaggerations to get someone arrested. While this might seem absurd, people have done this in the past to gain child custody rights in divorces, collect financial restitution, or simply to get revenge on someone they have grown to dislike.

Why Hire Our Domestic Violence Lawyers in Murfreesboro?

Domestic violence cases can be complex and emotionally charged, and it is crucial to have a knowledgeable and experienced attorney on your side to protect your rights. At Santel Garner, PLLC, our Murfreesboro domestic violence lawyer is dedicated to providing strong defense strategies for individuals facing domestic violence and harassment charges in Tennessee.

Our legal team understands the serious consequences of domestic violence convictions, including potential jail time, fines, restraining orders, and damage to your reputation. We will work tirelessly to challenge false allegations, gather evidence, and build a solid defense to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

When you choose our firm, you can expect:

• Personalized legal representation tailored to your unique situation
• Clear communication and guidance throughout the legal process
• Aggressive advocacy in and out of the courtroom
• Compassionate support during this challenging time

Don't face domestic violence charges alone. Contact our experienced domestic violence attorney in Murfreesboro today to schedule a consultation and start building a strong defense strategy.

Get Help from Our Murfreesboro Domestic Violence Attorney

The harsh consequences of domestic violence charges warrant an immediate and serious response. It is crucial that you have a highly qualified lawyer in your corner who is familiar with Tennessee law and with the court system in your area. The Murfreesboro domestic violence lawyers at our law firm have extensive legal experience as trial lawyers and strong reputations with people within our communities. 

Read some testimonials from our clients.

Charged with domestic violence? Contact our Murfreesboro domestic violence attorneys online or call (615) 987-0268 today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Murfreesboro judges handle protective orders in domestic violence cases?

In domestic violence cases, judges in Murfreesboro have a legal obligation to consider the safety of all parties when ruling on requests for Orders of Protection. The court can issue a temporary or extended protective order at your arraignment or a dedicated hearing—even if the criminal charges are still pending. 

Both parties are allowed to provide evidence and call witnesses at these hearings, and the judge will weigh the risks before making a decision. If a protective order is granted, it typically prohibits all contact with the alleged victim and may limit your access to shared residences, children, or property. The issuance or denial of a protective order often significantly affects other legal matters, such as child custody or visitation. Having a knowledgeable domestic violence lawyer in Murfreesboro is crucial for navigating these hearings, preparing evidence, and advocating for your best interests at every stage.

What should I do immediately after being arrested for domestic violence in Murfreesboro?

If you are arrested for domestic violence in Murfreesboro, your priority should be to remain silent and avoid making any statements to law enforcement or the alleged victim, even through friends or family. Anything you say can be used as evidence in court—both in your criminal case and any related protective order proceedings. After arrest, you will typically be taken to the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center for booking, and your first appearance before a judge (called an arraignment) will follow. 

It is essential to contact an experienced domestic violence attorney in Murfreesboro right away to ensure you are informed about your rights and have a dedicated legal advocate from the earliest stage possible.

Can domestic violence charges in Rutherford County be dropped if the alleged victim wants to withdraw their complaint?

Many individuals believe that domestic violence charges in Rutherford County will automatically be dropped if the alleged victim no longer wishes to pursue the case. However, in Tennessee, only the prosecutor—not the alleged victim—has the authority to decide whether to pursue or dismiss charges once they have been filed. 

Due to the serious public safety concerns associated with domestic violence, prosecutors are unlikely to dismiss cases solely at the request of the alleged victim. Instead, they will review police reports, physical evidence, witness statements, and other information to determine the strength of the case, even if the initial complainant becomes uncooperative.

We urge potential clients to contact us for guidance as soon as possible after an arrest or accusation.