Being arrested for domestic abuse in Louisiana is a life-changing moment. The accusation alone can impact your job, family, freedom, and reputation. If you’ve been charged in St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Livingston, or Washington Parish, you must understand what you’re up against and how the legal system works.
At James and Bradley, we defend people who have been accused, not convicted. Everyone deserves a strong defense, and that starts with knowing the facts.
What Is Considered Domestic Abuse in Louisiana?
Under Louisiana law (La. R.S. 14:35.3), domestic abuse battery is any intentional use of force or violence committed by one household member or dating partner against another. It doesn’t have to involve visible injuries. Even a shove, slap, or verbal threat can result in arrest if a partner or relative tells police they felt endangered.
Common accusers include:
- Roommates or live-in partners
- Spouses or ex-spouses
- Boyfriends or girlfriends
- Parents of your children
What Happens After an Arrest?
Once you’re arrested for domestic abuse in Louisiana, especially in parishes like Covington, Hammond, Amite, Livingston, or Franklinton, the wheels of the system turn fast:
- You’ll likely be held in jail for a minimum of 72 hours before seeing a judge.
- A protective order may be automatically issued, which can bar you from your home or children.
- Your firearm rights may be restricted.
- You’ll face criminal prosecution even if the accuser later wants to “drop the charges.”
District attorneys in St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Livingston, and Washington Parish aggressively prosecute domestic abuse cases, even when it’s one person’s word against another.
What Are the Penalties?
Domestic abuse battery is a misdemeanor for a first offense, but don’t let that fool you. A conviction can still bring:
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Mandatory anger management or intervention programs
- Fines and court fees
- Loss of child custody rights
- A permanent criminal record
If the case involves strangulation, child endangerment, or prior convictions, the charges can be upgraded to a felony, with prison time on the table.
You Deserve a Defense That Understands the Local Courts
At James and Bradley, we’ve spent years defending clients in the courtrooms of St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Livingston, and Washington Parish. We know the judges, the prosecutors, and the policies. We know how to challenge weak evidence, expose false claims, and negotiate outcomes that protect your future.
False accusations, exaggerated claims, and misunderstandings happen, especially during breakups, custody battles, or family fights. Let us help you tell your side of the story.
Domestic abuse charges are serious, but so are we. If you’ve been arrested or have a warrant in Covington, Franklinton, Amite, Hammond, or Livingston, don’t wait to get legal help.
Call 985-276-4740 now for a confidential consultation with an experienced attorney at James and Bradley.