Lafayette Domestic Abuse Defense Attorneys
Domestic Violence Defense Representation in Acadiana
If you’ve been charged with a domestic violence crime, you are likely already aware of what’s at stake. Even an accusation can do severe damage to your personal and professional reputation. A domestic violence allegation or conviction can also impact family law matters, including child custody.
There are always two sides to the story, and yours might involve extenuating circumstances, exaggerated charges, or even false accusations. At LeJeune & Associates, we can provide the legal advocacy you need to make sure that your side of the story is told. Our team includes a former prosecutor who understands how to effectively defend against domestic violence allegations. Protecting your future is our priority, and we are prepared to work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome. We are experienced trial attorneys who can fiercely represent you in court.
You shouldn’t wait to get legal advice if you have been accused of any form of domestic violence. Call (337) 607-1908 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with our Lafayette domestic abuse defense lawyers today.
I Have Been Accused of Domestic Abuse in Louisiana. What Should I Do?
Whether police have contacted you or you are already facing charges, you must act decisively to protect your rights. We stand ready to guide you through what can be a difficult process with compassion and skilled advocacy.
If You Have Been Accused but Not Arrested
When you learn about an accusation before police formally arrest you, you have a critical window of time to protect yourself. How you handle this phase can determine the trajectory of the entire case.
We encourage you to do the following:
- Exercise your right to remain silent. Police investigators may ask for your side of the story. While they might appear friendly, understanding, or even sympathetic, their primary goal involves gathering evidence to justify an arrest. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Politely decline to answer questions and state that you wish to consult with your lawyer.
- Cease all contact with the accuser. Do not call, text, email, or visit the accuser. Emotional attempts to "talk things out" or explain your side often backfire. Prosecutors can misinterpret these communications as witness tampering or intimidation. If you share a home, you may need to find another place to stay immediately to avoid any potential confrontations.
What Our Clients Say About Working With Us
Honest Feedback from People We’ve Helped
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"They have treated us like family."They have time and time again gone above and beyond for our case and prove that no matter what they will always give 110%!- Shelby A.
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"They really went the extra mile for me."I was recommended to Mr. Clay LeJeune Law Firm by a family member. After contacting and set up a meeting he was very willing and went out his way to help me get my legal situation taken care.- Derek C.
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"I recommend Clay LeJeune to any person who need professional service."Clay LeJeune went out of his way to provide me with the best law service, and deepest compliance to fix what was unjustly brought against me. I recommend Clay LeJeune to any person who need professional service. Thank you Clay LeJeune for all of your help and assistance.- Winnie B.
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"I would definitely recommend this law firm."So where do I begin. Attorney Clay is extremely intelligent, he knows what he is talking about for sure, gives you best advice, won't waste your time or money. He jumped on my case immediately. The whole staff is very friendly and just wonderful, Amanda is awesome. I would definitely recommend this law firm.- Rachel H.
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"Words cannot express how grateful we are for Mr. LeJeune and his staff."From day one he was on top of our case and showed us compassion. If you're looking for results Clay LeJeune is your Attorney!- Stephanie L.
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"He saved my career, livelihood, and in some ways it feels like my life."
I owe Mr. Clay so much. He saved my career, livelihood, and in some ways it feels like my life. Not to mention kept me out of prison. My family and I are so very much grateful for him and his staff. It’s tough dealing with criminal charges but I was found some relief when he said that he wasn’t worried and that I shouldn’t be until he was. Wouldn’t recommend anyone else in Acadiana.
- Gabriel M. -
"A top notch attorney."I highly recommend! Best criminal defense attorney in this area for sure. His staff is so helpful and so supportive. Always there when you need them and will protect you and your future.- Tonya C.
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"They have my business for LIFE."
Through this process they always kept me up to date on what was going on with my case and never left me wondering what was happening next.
- Shannon D.
What Is Considered Domestic Abuse in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, domestic abuse encompasses a specific set of criminal behaviors involving family members, current or former spouses, current or former household members, or current or former intimate partners. While many people associate the term solely with physical violence, Louisiana’s legal definition covers a broad spectrum of actions.
These actions include:
- Deliberate use of violence or force
- Stalking
- Controlling behavior
- Intimidation
- Sexual abuse
- Verbal abuse
One of the most common criminal charges involving domestic abuse is “domestic abuse battery.” The law defines this as the intentional use of force or violence committed by one household or family member upon another. Prosecutors do not need to prove that the alleged victim suffered a visible injury, only that the defendant used force or violence without consent.
This can include many types of acts, such as:
- Pushing, shoving, or grabbing
- Slapping, punching, or kicking
- Pulling hair or throwing objects at a person
Penalties for Domestic Abuse in Louisiana
Penalties for domestic abuse battery in Louisiana escalate rapidly based on your history and the specific facts of the incident. For a first offense, the charge typically remains a misdemeanor, but it still carries significant weight: You face fines of up to $1,000 and a jail sentence ranging from 30 days to six months. Crucially, the law mandates that you serve at least 48 hours of this sentence without the possibility of parole, probation, or suspension.
A second conviction increases the mandatory minimum jail time to 14 days and raises the potential sentence to up to one year. If you face a third conviction, the charge becomes a felony, carrying a mandatory minimum of one year in prison and a potential sentence of up to five years.
Certain aggravating factors can enhance the penalties of even a first-time offense. If the incident involves strangulation, burning, or the use of a dangerous weapon, the court may impose years of additional imprisonment and hard labor. The law also mandates sentence enhancements if a child under 13 was present during the incident or if the victim was pregnant.
The severity of these potential punishments underlines the need for experienced criminal defense representation. Our attorneys are well-versed in how to approach defense strategies for violent crimes and can work relentlessly to protect your freedom and future.
Put our seasoned lawyers on your side when you are facing these serious charges. Call (337) 607-1908 or contact us online today.