Protect Your Family & Home
A domestic violence charge can result in a Protection From Abuse order that removes you from your home and restricts contact with your children. We act quickly to protect your rights.
Criminal defense
Assault & Domestic Violence Defense in Pennsylvania
Assault and domestic violence charges can upend your life overnight — affecting your freedom, your family, your home, and your career. Dutko & Chwiecko Trial Attorneys provide experienced, aggressive defense for clients facing these charges throughout Berks, Lehigh, and Schuylkill counties.
Challenge False Allegations
Assault and domestic violence charges are sometimes based on false or exaggerated allegations. We investigate the facts and present the full picture to the court.
Experienced Trial Attorneys
Our attorneys have tried serious assault cases including homicide. We bring that same level of preparation and commitment to every assault and domestic violence defense.
Assault & Domestic Violence Charges We Defend
Simple Assault
Simple assault is a misdemeanor but can still result in jail time and a permanent record. We fight to protect your record and your future.
Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault is a serious felony that can carry years in state prison. We provide an aggressive defense and challenge every element of the charge.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence charges trigger mandatory arrest policies and can result in immediate removal from your home. We act quickly to protect your rights and your family relationships.
Protection From Abuse (PFA) Violations
Violating a PFA order is a criminal offense. We defend PFA violation charges and also represent clients in PFA hearings to challenge or modify existing orders.
Terroristic Threats
Charges involving alleged threats require proof of intent to terrorize. We challenge the evidence and the prosecution's characterization of the alleged statements.
Harassment & Stalking
Harassment and stalking charges can arise from misunderstandings or false allegations. We investigate the facts and build a defense based on the full context.
Recklessly Endangering Another Person
REAP charges require proof of reckless conduct creating a risk of serious bodily injury. We challenge the evidence of recklessness and the alleged risk.
Strangulation
Pennsylvania's strangulation statute carries serious felony penalties. We scrutinize the medical evidence and challenge the prosecution's proof of the alleged conduct.
Assault Charges Require Immediate Action
In domestic violence cases, Pennsylvania law requires police to make an arrest when they have probable cause to believe an assault occurred. This means charges can be filed even when the alleged victim does not want to press charges — and even when the allegations are false or exaggerated.
A domestic violence conviction carries consequences beyond the criminal sentence. Federal law prohibits anyone convicted of a domestic violence misdemeanor from possessing a firearm. A conviction can also affect child custody, professional licensing, and immigration status.
At Dutko & Chwiecko, we have tried serious assault cases and understand how to challenge the evidence, the witnesses, and the prosecution's narrative. We investigate the facts thoroughly and present your side of the story effectively — whether in negotiations or at trial.
Charged with Assault or Domestic Violence? Call Now.
These cases move fast. A Protection From Abuse order can be entered the same day charges are filed. Contact us immediately for a confidential consultation.