We defend people charged with domestic violence in Jackson and the surrounding counties. If you face an allegation or an arrest, we investigate the facts, protect your rights, and build a strategic defense aimed at the best practical outcome for your situation.
What domestic violence defense covers
Domestic violence cases include a range of charges from misdemeanor assault to felony domestic violence, violations of protective orders, and related offenses such as stalking or weapons charges. Our work covers the full process: early investigation, dealing with law enforcement, negotiating with the prosecutor, preparing for hearings and, when needed, taking a case to trial.
We represent clients across Hinds County, Madison County and Rankin County and in courts throughout the greater Jackson metro. For an overview of the steps that follow an arrest, see our guide to the criminal court process.
Benefits of hiring our domestic violence defense team
- Focused local experience in Jackson area courts, judges and prosecutors
- Thorough early investigation to preserve evidence and witness statements
- Strategic negotiation aimed at reducing charges or minimizing collateral consequences
- Trial readiness when negotiation is not in your best interest
- Clear, step by step communication so you understand options and timing
Our process for defending domestic violence cases
- Initial intake and rights review. We start by gathering your account of events and reviewing any police reports, 911 calls or protective orders. We explain immediate rights and what actions could affect the case going forward.
- Evidence preservation and investigation. We secure witness contact information, obtain surveillance or phone records when appropriate, and work with investigators to verify timelines and statements.
- Negotiation with prosecutors. Where appropriate, we discuss resolution options with the district attorney, focusing on outcomes that address your legal exposure and practical needs, including alternatives to conviction where available.
- Court preparation. If the case proceeds, we prepare motions, gather impeachment material for witnesses, and build a trial plan that addresses admissible evidence, witness credibility and jury themes.
- Trial or resolution. We are prepared to take cases to trial when that strategy best protects your interests. When a negotiated resolution is preferable, we ensure it limits future consequences such as custody or employment impact.
Watch out: Statements made during an investigation or at a courthouse can affect your case and any related civil processes. It is important to know your rights and to speak with counsel before making detailed statements.
What good defense work looks like
Good work begins with rapid, thorough fact gathering and clear lines of communication. It means preserving phone records and surveillance when available, interviewing witnesses promptly, and testing the credibility of all evidence the prosecution plans to use. We combine attention to detail with courtroom readiness so you never enter a hearing unprepared.
We balance assertive advocacy with practical goals. For some clients, avoiding jail time is the priority. For others, protecting parental rights or job security matters most. A strong defense addresses both the legal charge and the consequences that can follow a conviction.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as domestic violence under Mississippi law?
Domestic violence generally refers to assault, battery or other abusive conduct between people with certain relationships, such as intimate partners, family members or household members. The specific elements and penalties vary with the charge and whether the offense is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.
Will an arrest for domestic violence mean I will lose custody of my children?
An arrest does not automatically determine custody. Family courts consider many factors when making child custody decisions. Criminal outcomes can influence custody proceedings, so addressing the criminal case strategically is important to protect parental rights.
Can the prosecutor file a protective order against me?
Yes. Prosecutors or the alleged victim can seek protective or restraining orders that limit contact. Defending against a protective order often requires separate filings and hearings. We handle both the criminal charges and related civil protection matters as needed.
Should I speak to the police after a domestic violence arrest?
You should avoid providing detailed statements before you have legal representation. We explain what limited information is safe to provide, and we can coordinate with law enforcement so your rights are protected while the investigation moves forward.
What defenses are commonly used in domestic violence cases?
Defenses depend on the facts but commonly include mistaken identity, conflicting witness accounts, self defense, lack of intent, or problems with the collection and preservation of evidence. We evaluate which defenses fit your case and build them into a comprehensive strategy.
Can domestic violence charges be reduced or dismissed?
Sometimes charges can be reduced or dismissed through negotiation or by attacking the prosecution's evidence. Each case is different. Our goal is to identify realistic pathways that minimize legal and collateral consequences.
Why choose The Yurtkuran Law Firm for domestic violence defense
We are a criminal justice attorney practice based in Jackson, Mississippi that handles both misdemeanors and felonies in local courts. Shaun Yurtkuran and our staff focus on rigorous case preparation, strategic defense and courtroom readiness. We prioritize clear, step by step communication so you know what to expect at every stage.
Clients tell us they value our thoroughness and practical advice. When resolving your case matters beyond the courtroom, such as employment or family consequences, we address those concerns in our strategy.
Service area
We represent people charged with domestic violence throughout the greater Jackson metro, including Hinds County, Madison County and Rankin County. Our local experience matters when we work with prosecutors, handle hearings and prepare for trial in Jackson area courts.
Related services and resources
Domestic violence charges often overlap with other criminal matters. We handle related defenses including felony defense, probation violation defense and misdemeanor defense. For more on what happens after an arrest, see our page on rights after arrest.
Frequently asked questions
How soon should I contact a lawyer after an allegation?
As soon as possible. Early action helps preserve evidence and witness statements and can shape the direction of the investigation.
Will domestic violence charges appear on my record?
Convictions will appear on your criminal record. Some resolutions may limit public consequences, but each outcome has different effects on records and background checks.
Can victims change their mind about pursuing charges?
The decision to file charges rests with the prosecutor. A victim can provide a statement, but the district attorney evaluates the evidence and decides whether to proceed.
Where to look next
Check our Google Business Profile for reviews and directions, and read related pages on this site to learn more about the criminal process and your options.
Visit our Jackson office page to read reviews and get directions