Domestic violence is a serious issue that can lead to criminal charges. However, the Fifth Amendment and spousal privilege can affect how a defense attorney approaches the case. Learn more from a former prosecutor and defense attorney in Massachusetts about how invoking this right can affect your case.

Domestic violence is a pervasive problem that affects millions of people each year. In Massachusetts, domestic violence is a serious criminal offense that can result in severe penalties, including jail time, fines, and a criminal record. As a defense attorney and former prosecutor in Massachusetts, Brian D. Roman has seen firsthand how the Fifth Amendment and spousal privilege can affect domestic violence cases.

What Does The Fifth Amendment Protect? 

The Fifth Amendment protects individuals from self-incrimination, meaning they cannot be forced to testify against themselves in a criminal case. In domestic violence cases, the Fifth Amendment can play a critical role in how a defense attorney approaches the case.

Fifth Amendment and Domestic Violence Cases

For example, if the accused individual is asked to testify in court and fears that their testimony could incriminate them, they have the right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. However, this can also be seen as an admission of guilt, which can be used against them in court.

What is Spousal Privilege? 

Spousal privilege is a legal doctrine that protects a spouse from being forced to testify against their partner in court. In Massachusetts, the spousal privilege applies to both criminal and civil cases.

Spousal Privilege and Domestic Violence Cases

This privilege can be essential in domestic violence cases because it allows the spouse of the accused individual to refuse to testify against them. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as if the spouse is also a victim of domestic violence or if the accused individual is charged with a crime against a child.

The Intersection of the Fifth Amendment and Spousal Privilege

The intersection of the Fifth Amendment and spousal privilege can be complex in domestic violence cases. If the accused individual invoke their Fifth Amendment rights, it can affect the spousal privilege. For example, if the accused individual remains silent during questioning, it may be difficult for their spouse to testify on their behalf because they have no information to provide. In contrast, if the accused individual decides to testify, their spouse may lose their spousal privilege and be forced to testify as well.

Contact Our Domestic Violence Lawyer in Attleboro Today

Domestic violence is a serious criminal offense that can have severe consequences for those involved. As a defense attorney and former prosecutor in Massachusetts, Brian D. Roman has seen how the Fifth Amendment and spousal privilege can affect domestic violence cases. In these cases, it is essential to work with an experienced attorney who understands these complex legal issues and can use them to your advantage in court. If you or a loved one is facing domestic violence charges, contact a qualified domestic violence attorney with prosecutorial experience who can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.

Have you been accused of domestic violence? Call Brian D. Roman, Attorney at Law, today at 508-619-9121 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Attleboro domestic violence attorney.