How Prior Convictions Affect Domestic Violence Cases

Domestic violence in Ohio is a very serious offense. If you’ve been charged with this crime, you’ll need to promptly inform your lawyer of any prior domestic violence convictions. Usually, a conviction of knowingly or recklessly causing harm to a family or household member is prosecuted as a first-degree misdemeanor and the threat of harm is prosecuted as a fourth-degree misdemeanor. If you have just one prior conviction of domestic violence, however, then knowingly or recklessly causing harm will be prosecuted as a fourth-degree felony and threatening to cause harm will be prosecuted as a second-degree misdemeanor.

Two or more prior convictions of domestic violence will elevate the charges further. Charges of knowingly or recklessly inflicting harm will be prosecuted as a third-degree felony and threatening to cause harm will be prosecuted as a first-degree misdemeanor. When charges are upgraded in this manner, defendants accused of domestic violence can expect to face much more severe legal penalties if they are convicted again.

Effects of Prior Convictions on Domestic Violence Cases