If you have been charged with domestic violence in or the surrounding areas, contact The Hanzel Law Firm for hard-hitting representation. As the media increases domestic violence awareness, law enforcement officers and courts work to put all offenders behind bars. Due to the serious nature of your charge, we advise you to take immediate action. These offenses are taken very seriously and penalized harshly. Do not sit back and wait for your charges to blow over. Be proactive in order to safeguard your future. We understand the severity of your charges and are dedicated to offering you the best defense possible. Through thorough investigation, tireless research, and in-depth trial preparation – we are never caught off guard. We will anticipate the prosecution’s case against you and build a formidable defense accordingly.
Facing Domestic Violence Charges? Put Our Tenacity &
Experience on Your Side
When your relationships, reputation and rights are at stake, you need prompt, reliable legal representation from a highly skilled defense lawyer.
Schedule My Free ConsultationDomestic Violence Attorney
We’re Here For You When It Matters Most: (843) 202-4714
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Michael B. Hanzel & Lauren Hanzel
Former JAGs Providing Legal Counsel
If you are facing criminal charges, such as sexual assault, drugs, DUI, or even attempted murder, having experienced and knowledgeable legal counsel can be vital. As accomplished military crimes attorneys, The Hanzel Law Firm can provide you with representation to help you gain confidence throughout the legal process.
Both of our lawyers are military veterans and understand how important your career is to your livelihood. They have now turned their attention to defending our service members with skilled legal strategies. Being former JAGs has allowed them to gain unique knowledge into how many military prosecutors develop their arguments. We believe that someone who is willing to sacrifice so much for our country has already done enough fighting. Our legal team is focused on providing our clients with tougher than tough representation.
Our Case Results
Results While on Active Duty
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Charges Dismissed
All charges dismissed for an officer falsely accused of sexual assault, rape, conduct unbecoming, and fraternization. Overcame unlawful command influence of powerful Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and went toe-to-toe with the high-powered Washington DC law firm representing the complaining witness. Ultimately, won a motion striking down the Article 32 rules put out by the Secretary of the Navy himself, and got the case dismissed on the eve of trial through our own investigation that proved the complaining witness had lied. Then won a unanimous 3-0 no basis vote at the Board of Inquiry, fully exonerating this officer client.
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Drop Of Administrative board
In a senior officer case, persuaded NOAA to completely drop an administrative board against a ship Commanding Officer accused of breaking environmental regulations.
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Case Won
Represented a Navy Commander at a BOI where he was accused of abusive sexual contact and sexual harassment by three separate women and won a no basis.
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Case Won
Won a high-profile rape trial for a Navy SEAL accused of violent rape, aggravated assault and numerous other crimes. Was brought onto this case to salvage it from counsel who were floundering, and succeeded in getting client acquitted of all serious charges. The complaining witness was discredited, and he was only convicted of two minor charges based on his own statements, one of which was overturned later on appeal and the other of which is pending appeal.
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Honorable Discharge
Won an honorable discharge for a Navy SEAL who was jailed for months by the state of Virginia after a drunken bar fight in which he severely injured a civilian.
Put The Hanzel Law Firm in Your Corner
You Fought for Our Rights. Allow Us to Protect Yours.
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Our Attorneys Have a Proven Track Record as US Navy JAGs
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We Know the Criminal Justice System Inside & Out
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We're Committed to Fighting for Your Constitutional Rights
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Our Team Provides Zealous & Ethical Legal Advocacy
We're Prepared to Defend Your Freedom Against an Unfair Justice System - Call Now!
Common Penalties
Litigating domestic violence crimes is difficult. Often, these crimes fall into a gray area of the law. Incidents of alleged “domestic violence” often occur in the heat of a moment and are used as a weapon. Once a charge of domestic violence has been made, the accuser cannot withdraw the allegation. We would be proud to serve as your powerful voice in a court of law.
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Jail Time
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Expensive Fines
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Restraining Order
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Criminal Record
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Loss of Your Children
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Loss of Certain Professional Licenses
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What Is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence includes physical abuse, psychological abuse, financial abuse and verbal threats toward family members or household members.
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I Have Been Falsely Accused. What Do I Do?
Obtain the accuser’s complaint sworn against you and prepare for the evidentiary hearing. We'll present evidence, witnesses and testimony.
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Can My Charges Be Dismissed?
Hiring an aggressive criminal defense attorney from our law firm will greatly increase your chances of securing a case dismissal.
We Have The Answers You Need
Frequently Asked Questions
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Questions
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What Happens If I Violate A Restraining Order?
Answer
If a protective order has been filed against you as a result of a domestic violence accusation, you must remain a certain distance from the accuser. If you violate the restraining order, you will be arrested and taken into police custody. If you would like changes to be made to your restraining order, you must speak with the judge who originally issued the protective order.
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Are There Alternatives to Serving Time in Prison or Jail?
Answer
While alternatives to incarceration are available, retaining legal assistance as early on as possible will decrease your chances of being sentenced with prison or jail time in the first place.
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Can I Be Charged If No Physical Contact Was Made?
Answer
Any threat directed to another party that makes him or her feel as if they are in danger of physical harm may result in a domestic violence charge. This includes stalking and harassment.
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Possible Case Outcomes
Charges Reduced
There may be a chance that you can get your charges reduced to a misdemeanor, depending upon circumstances with what exactly happened.
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Possible Case Outcomes
Suppressed Evidence
In some instances, it can be proven that some type of violation occurred during the process of investigation, which could lead to evidence being thrown out of court.
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Possible Case Outcomes
Charges Dismissed
We work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome, including getting your criminal charges completely dismissed, acquitted, or dropped.
Increase Your Chances of a Better Outcome
We Know the Law. We Can Protect Your Rights.
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Am I
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I can't afford
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Is this going on my
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Can you help?
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I regret all of it
