Defending Your Future: What to Expect When Facing Domestic Violence Charges

Facing accusations of domestic violence can be a frightening and isolating experience. At the Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon, PLLC, we understand the seriousness of these charges and are committed to providing you with a vigorous and ethical defense backed by over 38 years of experience in criminal law. Serving primarily Washtenaw County and its local communities like Ann Arbor, Chelsea, Saline, Dexter, Milan, Pittsfield Township Ypsilanti and Ypsilanti Township, our firm exclusively practices criminal defense and we can provide you with the representation you deserve.

A Defense Built on Experience and Local Insight

When your freedom and reputation are at stake, turn to an attorney with a proven track record of success. At The Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon, we don't make empty representations of who we are. Instead, we rely on our extensive experience, our established reputation, our peer reviewed ratings, and sterling reviews from our clients. Our deep understanding of the local court system, judges, and prosecuting attorneys, provides a significant advantage as we understand the audience who will be hearing our arguments.  We don’t shy away from the truth that some lawyers can accomplish things that others cannot and that some lawyers are held in higher esteem than others. Joseph A. Simon has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America® since 2001, under the specialty of criminal defense, and has been selected five times as Ann Arbor’s criminal defense Lawyer of the Year (2013, 2015, 2023, 2024, 2025) achieving Martindale-Hubbell's AV-Preeminent* peer-reviewed rating for the highest standards in ethics and legal ability.

Defense Strategies in Domestic Violence Cases

While there is no “one size fits all” strategy to defending domestic violence charges, key strategies include:

∙         A thorough Client Intake Interview: We begin by conducting a detailed and confidential interview to understand your side of the story and gather all information and evidence concerning the alleged incident.

∙         Comprehensive Discovery: We obtain and review all available evidence, including police reports, in-car and body-worn camera footage, 9-1-1 audio recordings.

∙         Independent Investigation: We doggedly search for any collateral sources of evidence such as text messages or security camera footage. A thorough investigation can uncover inconsistencies or provide crucial context to the events.

∙         Pretrial Motions: Where warranted, we argue pretrial motions to challenge  evidence or due process rights.

∙         Trial Preparation: If your case proceeds to trial, we prepare you thoroughly for all courtroom proceedings, including potential testimony, ensuring your best possible defense at trial.

∙         Presentation of Defenses: There are several defenses to Domestic Violence charges.  False allegations, consent, use of reasonable force in self-defense, mutual combat, to name a few.  We carefully analyze the facts of your case to determine the best and most viable defense.

Navigating the Complexities of a Domestic Violence Case

It's important to understand that domestic violence cases often have unique legal and procedural aspects. Unlike other assault cases, prosecutors in Michigan often pursue these charges even if the alleged victim does not wish to press charges or proceed. It is the state, not the individual, who is the moving party. The moving party is the People of the State of Michigan (or local Township/City Attorney), and only the prosecutor has the authority to dismiss the case. 

Protecting Your Future and Reputation

At The Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon, our unwavering commitment to excellence in criminal defense means we will tirelessly work to protect your freedom, reputation, and future goals. We recognize the severe impact  a domestic violence conviction can have and we are committed to offering the best possible defense.

Contact Us for a Free Confidential Consultation

If you or a loved one are facing domestic violence charges in Washtenaw County or its local communities, including Chelsea, Dexter, Saline, Milan, Pittsfield or Ypsilanti Township, don't hesitate to contact us. Call (734) 887-6200 today for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your case and learn how our experience can benefit you. Let our experience, reputation, and unwavering commitment be your ally in this challenging time.

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*Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories - legal ability and general ethical standards.