Grand Rapids Domestic Violence Lawyer

Experienced Defense Against Spousal Abuse Accusations in Kent County 

In Michigan, domestic violence allegations carry serious consequences. If you face accusations, contacting a domestic violence lawyer in Grand Rapids gives you an immediate advocate as you navigate Michigan's complex legal process. False allegations, misunderstandings, or mistakes can still result in criminal charges. Penalties may involve jail time, financial fines, and court-ordered restrictions on your daily life. The court process contains many rules that demand strict compliance. Hiring an experienced attorney helps you avoid costly missteps and ensures a clear defense strategy from the start.

If police charged you with a domestic violence offense, connect with the domestic violence defense attorneys at Tanis Schultz for high-quality legal representation. Our attorneys offer personalized support, considering the facts and listening to your side before building a strategic defense for your situation. We focus on achieving the best possible outcome, backed by years of combined litigation experience in Michigan courts. Our team understands the details that can make a difference to your future. With every case, we review the evidence closely and ensure nothing is overlooked, drawing from deep knowledge of local court practices and state laws.

Are you facing domestic violence charges in Michigan? Call Tanis Schultz today at (616) 227-3737 or contact us online to discuss your case with our domestic violence lawyer in Grand Rapids!

What Is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence in Michigan covers accusations that a person harmed someone with whom they have an intimate relationship. Harm can include physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse. A domestic violence attorney in Grand Rapids provides guidance and helps clients understand how these definitions impact their unique situations.

The law classifies many behaviors as domestic violence. Examples include threats, coercion, intimidation, and verbal abuse. When legal counsel gets involved early, clients stand a greater chance of protecting their rights and containing the scope of the charges.

A domestic or intimate relationship includes:

• Spouses or former spouses
• Current or former dating partners
• People with a child or children in common
• Current or former household members

Domestic violence allegations carry consequences far beyond criminal penalties. They impact your time with children, access to your home, and even your employment. Michigan law treats any pattern of threatening or violent behavior as domestic violence – even if there is no visible injury. Courts like the 61st District Court in Grand Rapids or the 63rd District Court for outlying areas handle these cases with focused scrutiny. Each local court applies state law but will also consider its own protocols and timeline when determining how cases proceed.

Personal Protective & No-Contact Orders in Michigan

Depending on your situation, you may be subject to a Personal Protective Order (PPO) or no-contact order. Courts often issue these at the request of someone who claims domestic violence. A PPO restricts your actions, such as prohibiting visits to the other party’s home or workplace or owning a firearm. In emergency situations, a judge can grant an ex parte order, making the PPO effective before you appear in court.

A no-contact order can also be a condition of your release or bail. This means you may not attempt to communicate with the alleged victim in any way, including calls, messages, or third-party contact.

Violating either order brings additional penalties. Immediate legal support helps you challenge unjust requirements and avoid mistakes that could complicate your situation. Our domestic violence attorney in Grand Rapids routinely reviews these orders to clarify conditions and address risks unique to each case.

Grand Rapids courts hear and issue protective orders quickly. Judges weigh the facts for each relationship and incident. If served with a PPO, you have a narrow window to contest the order, making prompt action essential. Protective orders may also affect custody, housing, and job opportunities, especially if the incident occurred locally. Our team will help you understand how these orders operate within Kent County and what steps you can take if a PPO or no-contact restriction disrupts your daily life.

Legal guidance may also help with requests for modification or appeals, especially where the order impacts family arrangements or employment. By working with a defense lawyer, you can take steps to avoid unintentional violations and reduce the risk of additional sanctions.

What Are the Penalties for Domestic Violence in Michigan? 

Under Michigan law, a domestic violence conviction results in strict penalties, including:

• First Offense:
  • Up to 93 days in jail
  • Up to $500 in fines
• Second Offense:
  • Up to 1 year in jail
  • Up to $1,000 in fines
• Third or Subsequent Offense (felony):
  • Up to 5 years in prison
  • Up to $5,000 in fines

Convictions also bring consequences beyond sentencing. These may affect immigration status, child custody, jobs, and professional licenses. For those facing charges, working with a Grand Rapids Domestic Violence Attorney helps you understand what is at stake and how legal representation may affect the outcome.

Kent County prosecutors often pursue maximum sentences for repeat offenses or cases involving injuries or children. Local judges apply Michigan Sentencing Guidelines but pay attention to individual case details and criminal backgrounds. Aggravated charges can increase penalties significantly. Our knowledge of Grand Rapids courts allows us to navigate these guidelines and help you understand options for reducing exposure to the harshest outcomes.

Alternatives to Jail Time

If you are charged with a first-time domestic violence offense, you may be able to enter a deferral program to avoid incarceration. Under MCL 769.4a (also called the Spousal Abuse Act), a guilty plea may result in probation instead of jail.

Alternative sentencing, such as these programs, reflect the idea that rehabilitation can be more effective than strict punishment. Programs may include mandatory counseling, anger management, or community service to reduce the chance of future incidents. Legal counsel evaluates all possible alternatives for more lenient outcomes based on your record and charge details.

As part of probation, you may have to:

• Attend counseling
• Complete an anger management class
• Submit to drug or alcohol testing

If you successfully finish probation, the court may not enter your guilty plea on your criminal record. You can often avoid jail and preserve your future. Most local courts review deferral eligibility based on the incident, prior offenses, and other case-specific facts. Some programs require additional risk assessments or periodic court reviews. These alternatives let many people keep working and living with their families in Kent County while addressing court demands.