Accusations of domestic violence can have severe consequences for college students, impacting both their academic and personal lives. That’s not to mention the intense emotional and social stigma that comes with being accused of domestic violence. At DC Student Defense, former federal prosecutor and defense attorney Shan Wu offers experienced legal guidance to students facing domestic violence allegations, ensuring their rights and futures are protected.
College Domestic Violence Allegations Defense
What is the Definition of Domestic Violence?
In most states, domestic violence refers to assaults or threats that occur between individuals in close relationships, such as spouses, partners, family members, or household members. This includes any form of assault or threat where the victim is related to, adopted by, married to, dating, or in another intimate relationship with the offender.
Colleges and universities often divide domestic violence violations into two categories:
- Domestic Violence: Defined as an “intra-family” offense between intimate partners that results in physical injury, harm, or reasonable fear of imminent physical injury, harm, or death. This includes not only physical actions but also sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats intended to hurt, manipulate, intimidate, threaten, injure, or terrorize another individual. Often, domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used by one partner to control or gain power over the other.
- Dating Violence: Defined as an offense against an intimate partner in a social relationship (romantic, dating, or sexual relationship) that results in the same injury or harm found in a domestic violence dispute.
How Do Colleges and Universities Handle Domestic Violence Cases?
Every school will have a different policy and procedure regarding the handling of a domestic violence case. However, in most cases, criminal charges are considered violations of the student code of conduct and are subject to university disciplinary hearings.
When determining a domestic violence offense, universities consider the length of the relationship, type of relationship, and frequency of interaction between the individuals involved. The process typically involves the following steps:
When a domestic violence accusation arises, the university will also contact state or local law enforcement. Early and thorough contact with witnesses is often crucial to building a defense against criminal charges. Our clients benefit from our lawyers’ investigatory experience and the expertise of seasoned former-law enforcement investigators.
If you are facing criminal charges and a university disciplinary hearing, or if you are the victim of a domestic crime, it is essential to contact a student defense lawyer experienced in college student assault cases to ensure your rights and education are protected.
What Should I Do if I Am Accused of Domestic Violence?
Accusations of domestic violence should be taken very seriously. To effectively prove that the accusations against you are false, you need the assistance of an experienced student defense attorney with a strong track record in domestic violence cases. They can represent your case, protecting both your rights and your future.
If you are dealing with domestic violence allegations, securing legal counsel quickly is essential to protecting your education and future. Contact DC Student Defense to discuss your case and explore your defense options. Let us help safeguard your academic and personal future.
What Our Clients Say
Frequently Asked Questions
What constitutes domestic violence?
Domestic violence includes assaults or threats between intimate partners, family members, or household members, encompassing physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological harm.
How do colleges and universities define domestic violence?
Universities define domestic violence as offenses between intimate partners resulting in physical injury, harm, or reasonable fear of harm, and also include sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats.
How are domestic violence cases investigated on campus?
Law enforcement officers are required to arrest individuals when there is probable cause of a domestic violence violation. The university will also conduct its own parallel investigation and determine whether academic consequences are appropriate.
