You will first appear in court for an arraignment in which you should plead not guilty and request a continuance in order to retain an attorney. You should retain an attorney because you are facing serious charges. Not only does a conviction carry the possibility of 6 months in jail and a $1000 fine, it also has consequences beyond sentencing. A domestic violence conviction disqualifies you from owning firearms which could prevent you from acquiring certain employment. Also, a conviction for domestic violence cannot be expunged from your record and can be used to enhance the a subsequent charge of domestic violence from a misdemeanor to a felony. Finally, a conviction for domestic violence can be used against you in future custody matters.
