Northern New Jersey Domestic Violence Defense Attorney Susan C. Cassell
The Best Defense Is a Good Offense
In you are convicted of domestic violence, you could be facing devastating effects on your reputation, your employability and your family structure along with the criminal penalties. You may have your movements restricted, lose your ability to own firearms, and even face deportation, if you are an immigrant. You could face jail time for the domestic violence offense or if you violate a restraining or protective order.
If you have been charged with domestic violence, or if an order of protection has been filed against you, you should consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer right away.
My name is Susan C. Cassell. I have over 20 years experience in criminal law — including as a former municipal prosecutor and federal prosecutor. I help people in northern New Jersey and New York defend themselves against criminal charges of domestic violence.
I believe in being available to my clients and keeping them informed about the status of their cases, any changes and all of their legal options. Contact me at my law office in Ridgewood (near Paramus) to schedule a free consultation if you have been charged with domestic violence and want aggressive, knowledgeable representation.
A Former Prosecutor With More Than 20 Years of Experience
Restraining orders and protective orders stemming from domestic violence often originate in family court without a hearing. Unless criminal domestic violence, battery or assault charges are filed, these orders are not considered criminal matters unless they are violated. If you have been charged with violating a protection or restraining order, criminal charges will be filed against you which could result in mandatory incarceration.
It is crucial to have a criminal defense attorney on your side when even a temporary restraining order has been issued so that you are prepared if someone moves to make the order permanent or to file corresponding criminal charges. The information presented in the petition for a restraining order is often the same as what may be presented in a criminal case, so your lawyer can use that information to begin preparing your defense.
A permanent orders lasts a lifetime and will impact all facets of your life immeasurably. If a party does move to have the restraining order made permanent, a hearing will be scheduled, and it is crucial to be prepared to confront the allegations. I can help you assemble your case and I will zealously represent you before the judge.
Convictions for violating an order of protection — like all domestic violence convictions — cannot be expunged from your criminal record. As your criminal defense attorney, I will work aggressively to have the charges reduced or dismissed, or to seek a not-guilty verdict in court.
Contact My Ridgewood, New Jersey Office for a Free Consultation
I am available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to discuss criminal domestic violence charges in municipal or superior court or restraining order petitions filed in family or other courts. For your convenience, your free initial consultation can take place in any number of locations, including in jail or the Bergen County Courthouse. Contact me today by e-mail or by calling (201) 445-3894 to begin minimizing the effects these charges may have on your life.