Family Violence Charges in Georgia
In Georgia, domestic violence charges are formally classified as “family violence” offenses under O.C.G.A. § 19-13-1. These include battery, assault, stalking, criminal damage to property, unlawful restraint, and certain forms of criminal trespass when committed between household members, current or former spouses, parents and children, or individuals in a current or former dating relationship.
A family violence designation dramatically increases the consequences of what might otherwise be a routine misdemeanor. Family violence battery convictions trigger federal firearm prohibitions under the Lautenberg Amendment — even for misdemeanor convictions — and carry immigration consequences for non-citizens.
Cases We Handle
- Family violence battery — first offense and subsequent offenses
- Aggravated battery against a family member
- Family violence assault
- Stalking and aggravated stalking
- Violation of a protective order (TPO/FPO)
- False accusation defense
- Mutual combat situations where only one party is charged
- Emergency protective order (EPO) hearings
- Temporary protective order (TPO) hearings
Protective Order Hearings in Macon
When law enforcement responds to a domestic call in Macon, officers frequently seek an Emergency Protective Order (EPO) even if the alleged victim does not request one. An EPO can force you out of your own home, away from your children, and prohibit contact with your partner — before any charges are filed or proven.
Within 30 days, a Temporary Protective Order (TPO) hearing is held in Bibb County Superior Court. If you do not appear and contest the TPO, it is almost always granted by default. GA Defense Criminal Lawyers represents clients at all protective order hearings.
False Accusations and Exaggerated Claims
In many domestic violence situations, the accusations are false, exaggerated, or the result of a mutual disagreement where only one party was arrested. Georgia law enforcement has a mandatory arrest policy in many domestic call situations — meaning someone gets arrested even when the facts are disputed.
We build defenses based on inconsistent statements from the alleged victim, physical evidence inconsistent with the claimed assault, prior false reports, motive to fabricate, and witness testimony that contradicts the official account.
Important Note on Victim Cooperation
In Georgia, the prosecution — not the alleged victim — decides whether to pursue charges. Even if the other party wants to drop the case, the Bibb County DA may proceed. You need experienced defense counsel regardless of what the alleged victim says they will or will not do.
Domestic Violence Charges in Macon?
Protect your family, your record, and your future. Call GA Defense Criminal Lawyers immediately.
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