Stamford Domestic Violence Lawyer

Being arrested for domestic violence in Stamford can turn your life upside down in a matter of hours. One moment you are at home with your family, and the next you may be in handcuffs, facing the possibility of jail, a criminal record, and a court order that keeps you away from your loved ones.

Connecticut takes domestic violence allegations very seriously. Under the state’s mandatory arrest laws, if police believe there is probable cause that a family violence crime occurred, they must make an arrest—even if the alleged victim does not want charges filed.

Worse, you will be required to appear in Stamford Superior Court the very next business day for an arraignment and protective order hearing. What you say and do in those first 24 hours can determine whether you can return home, see your children, and protect your reputation.

At Allan F. Friedman Criminal Lawyer, we have been defending clients accused of domestic violence for more than 30 years. We know how to navigate the complexities of Connecticut’s domestic violence system, fight for your rights in court, and work to protect what matters most to you.

In Connecticut, “domestic violence” (also called “family violence”) is not a separate crime. Instead, it refers to a wide range of offenses committed between family or household members, including spouses, former spouses, dating partners, people who share a child, and even roommates. Common charges include:

• Assault in the Third Degree – C.G.S. § 53a-61
• Threatening in the Second Degree – C.G.S. § 53a-62
• Strangulation / Suffocation in the Second Degree – C.G.S. § 53a-64bb
• Strangulation / Suffocation in the Third Degree – C.G.S. § 53a-64cc
• Stalking in the Second Degree – C.G.S. § 53a-181d
• Harassment in the Second Degree – C.G.S. § 53a-183
• Disorderly Conduct – C.G.S. § 53a-182
• Breach of Peace in the Second Degree – C.G.S. § 53a-181
• Violation of a Criminal Protective Order – C.G.S. § 53a-223
• Violation of a Civil Restraining Order – C.G.S. § 53a-223b

Any of these charges, when designated as “family violence,” can lead to restrictive protective orders, mandatory counseling, and serious criminal penalties if not handled correctly.

Connecticut moves quickly in domestic violence cases. Here’s what to expect:

Police in Stamford are required to arrest at least one party if they believe probable cause exists. In some cases, both parties are arrested. Even if the alleged victim does not want charges filed, the case proceeds under the state’s authority.

After booking, you may be released on bond or held overnight. By law, you must appear in court the next business day. This first court date is critical.

Before your arraignment, you will meet with a Family Relations Officer at the courthouse. This person will ask about the incident, your background, and any safety concerns. What you say can be used to recommend restrictions on your freedom—including whether you can return home.

At the arraignment, the judge will decide whether to issue a criminal protective order, which can range from a “full no contact” order (barring all communication) to a “partial” or “limited” order (allowing contact but prohibiting threats or harassment). Violating this order is a separate felony charge.

Your case will be scheduled for pretrial conferences. Depending on your record and the facts of the case, you may be eligible for a diversionary program like the Family Violence Education Program (FVEP), which can lead to a dismissal upon successful completion. If not, your attorney will prepare for negotiation or trial.

Protective orders are one of the most immediate and disruptive consequences of a domestic violence arrest.

• Full No Contact Order: No contact of any kind with the alleged victim.
• Full Residential Stay-Away Order: Contact allowed, but you cannot live with or visit the alleged victim’s residence.
• Partial / Limited Order: Contact allowed, but you cannot harass, threaten, or assault the alleged victim.

Violating a protective order is a felony under C.G.S. § 53a-223 and can result in jail time, even if the alleged victim initiated contact.

Every case is unique, and there is no “one-size-fits-all” defense. We tailor our approach to your specific situation, which may include:

• Challenging the Evidence: Police reports often contain errors, and 911 calls or witness statements may be inconsistent. We thoroughly investigate and identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
• Self-Defense: In many disputes, the accused was actually defending themselves. Connecticut law allows self-defense as a valid legal argument.
• False or Exaggerated Allegations: Domestic disputes can lead to false claims, sometimes made to gain leverage in divorce or custody cases.
• Negotiation and Diversion: For first-time offenders, we often seek admission into the Family Violence Education Program, which can result in dismissal of charges upon completion.
• Protecting Your Parental Rights: We fight to ensure protective orders are fair and that your ability to see your children is preserved whenever possible.

• Available 24/7: Emergencies don’t wait—we answer the phone anytime.
• Decades of Experience: Over 30 years of defending clients in Stamford and throughout Connecticut.
• Personalized Strategies: Every case is unique, and we fight for the best outcome in your specific situation.
• Proven Results: From dismissals to reduced charges, we have a track record of success in domestic violence cases.

The hours after a domestic violence arrest are critical. Don’t face the system alone.

Call Allan F. Friedman Criminal Lawyer at (203) 357-5555 for a free, confidential consultation. We are available 24/7 to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.