Gwinnett County Domestic Violence Lawyers

Strong Defense for Family Violence Allegations

Domestic violence charges in Georgia are prosecuted aggressively and carry serious legal consequences. An accusation alone can damage your reputation, strain relationships, and jeopardize your freedom. A conviction may result in jail time, firearm restrictions, and a lasting criminal record that can profoundly impact your future.

If you've been accused of domestic violence, hire a defense team that understands what's at stake and has the insights to protect your rights. Crawford and Boyle, LLC provides strategic representation for individuals facing domestic violence allegations in Gwinnett County. Backed by over 50 years of combined legal experience and a deep understanding of the criminal justice system, our defense attorneys approach every case with the urgency and preparation it demands.

As a team that includes former prosecutors, we know how the state builds its case—and we use that insight to challenge weak evidence, expose inconsistencies, and tell your side of the story. We don’t rely on assumptions or shortcuts. We dig deep into the details, identify a strong path forward, and build a defense tailored to your situation.

If you or someone you care about has been charged with domestic violence in Gwinnett County, call (678) 726-5400 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

Understanding Domestic Violence Charges in Georgia

In Georgia, domestic violence—legally referred to as “family violence”—is defined under O.C.G.A. § 19-13-1 as a criminal act committed against a family or household member. Law enforcement and the courts treat these cases with particular sensitivity.

The law identifies specific relationships that fall under the category of family or household members, including:

• Current or former spouses
• Parents of the same child
• Parents and children
• Stepparents and stepchildren
• Foster parents and foster children
• Persons who currently or formerly lived together

Charges involving family violence are not limited to physical altercations. 

Prosecutors may pursue these cases based on a wide range of alleged conduct, including:

• Any felony offense
• Battery
• Assault
• Stalking
• Criminal damage to property
• Unlawful restraint
• Criminal trespass

The legal definition of family violence casts a wide net, and even a minor accusation can escalate into a formal charge with serious consequences. Our lawyers provide focused, informed defense for individuals facing these accusations. With decades of combined experience and deep knowledge of how these cases are prosecuted, our legal team delivers strategic counsel backed by thorough case preparation. We understand the implications of these charges and are prepared to stand with you at every stage.

The Potential Penalties and Impact of a Domestic Violence Conviction

An accusation of domestic violence carries immediate and far-reaching consequences—inside and outside the courtroom. When an alleged act involves a family or household member, the penalties for the underlying offense are often enhanced, and the legal process becomes more complex.

For example, crimes like simple battery or simple assault are typically misdemeanors. However, when tied to a domestic relationship, those same offenses may be elevated to a “misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.” This heightened classification can result in harsher penalties, including longer jail sentences and steeper fines. 

In some cases, like those involving battery, repeat offenses may trigger felony charges, increasing the risk of substantial prison time.

The legal penalties are only one part of the equation. Domestic violence accusations can also lead to immediate protective orders, restrictions on contact with loved ones, and the loss of child custody or visitation rights. 

A conviction—or even an unresolved accusation—can damage personal relationships, jeopardize employment, and create long-term harm to your reputation.

Given what’s at stake, swift legal action is critical. Our domestic violence defense attorneys recognize the urgency these matters demand. We move quickly to preserve evidence, build a strong case, and protect our clients’ rights.