Top Domestic Abuse Attorneys in Poughkeepsie, NY, and Surrounding Areas.

Representation You Can Trust At Kimberly Pelesz New York Law!

We stand up for those affected by domestic violence—and those falsely accused. Whether you need protection from an abuser or are facing wrongful allegations, our team provides strong, compassionate legal support. We help victims secure orders of protection, custody, and safety. We also defend clients against false claims that can impact family, reputation, and freedom. No matter your side of the situation, we’ll fight for your rights with discretion and care.

Understanding Domestic Violence Laws in New York: What You Need to Know

Domestic violence is a serious legal matter in New York and can involve both criminal charges and civil court proceedings. While many people associate domestic violence with physical abuse, New York law takes a broader view. It includes not only physical harm, but also emotional abuse, threats, harassment, stalking, and other behaviors intended to intimidate or control a partner or family member.

Under New York law, domestic violence is not a specific criminal charge. Instead, it refers to a pattern of abusive behavior that results in charges such as assault, menacing, harassment, stalking, sexual abuse, strangulation, and criminal mischief. These charges can carry significant penalties, including jail time, fines, mandatory counseling, and the issuance of orders of protection.

Domestic violence laws in New York apply to a wide range of relationships—not just married couples. The law covers current or former spouses, individuals with a child in common, people who are related by blood or marriage, and those who have been in an intimate relationship, even if they don’t live together.

When domestic violence allegations arise, the accused may face both criminal charges in criminal court and related matters in family court, such as custody disputes or orders of protection. Victims can file for civil orders of protection even if no criminal charges are brought. Similarly, a criminal court judge can issue a protective order as part of the prosecution.

Because of the emotional nature of these cases, it’s important to have knowledgeable and compassionate legal representation. Our experienced domestic abuse attorneys in Poughkeepsie, NY help clients navigate the legal system with care, especially when emotions are running high. We provide strategic guidance, clear communication, and unwavering support to ensure your rights are protected at every stage of the legal process.

Whether you are seeking protection or defending against false accusations, early legal intervention is critical to preserve evidence, protect your rights, and build a strong defense.

The consequences of a domestic violence case can impact every aspect of your life, from your reputation and employment to your custody rights and freedom. That’s why it’s essential to work with a legal team that understands both the criminal and family law implications.

At Kimberly Pelesz New York Law, LLC, our domestic abuse attorneys in Poughkeepsie, NY are committed to protecting your rights, your safety, and your future. We approach each case with sensitivity, strategic insight, and a deep understanding of both family and criminal law to achieve a positive outcome.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Domestic Violence and Child Custody: What Parents Need to Understand

When domestic violence allegations are involved in a child custody case, the stakes are significantly higher. New York courts take these claims seriously and are required to prioritize the safety and well-being of the child above all else. Whether you are a parent seeking protection or defending against false accusations, it’s essential to understand how domestic violence can impact custody and visitation decisions.

Under New York law, judges consider many factors when determining custody, but evidence of domestic violence is a key consideration. If a parent has committed acts of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse—especially in the presence of the child—the court may limit or even deny that parent’s custody or visitation rights. In such cases, the court may order supervised visitation, require the abusive parent to attend counseling or anger management, or in extreme situations, terminate parental rights.

However, not all allegations are true or fairly presented. In some high-conflict divorces or custody battles, one parent may make exaggerated or false claims to gain an advantage. Courts are aware of this possibility and require credible evidence before issuing rulings based on abuse allegations. Still, even the accusation alone can affect a parent’s standing in court, making a strong legal defense critical. Our domestic abuse attorneys in Poughkeepsie, NY regularly handle high-conflict custody cases where safety and fairness must both be addressed.

Whether you are seeking to protect your child from an abusive environment or fighting to maintain your parental rights in the face of wrongful allegations, we are here to help. Navigating custody and visitation in the context of domestic violence requires a deep understanding of both family law and protective legal measures.

Domestic Abuse Attorneys in Poughkeepsie, NY

We work closely with clients to present compelling evidence, advocate for appropriate parenting plans, and ensure the court hears the full story and context. We work closely with clients to present and ensure the court hears the full story and context clearly.

At Kimberly Pelesz New York Law, LLC, we know how emotional and difficult these cases can be. We provide compassionate, strategic legal representation that keeps your child’s best interests at the center while also defending your rights as a parent. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward protecting your family’s future.

How Domestic Violence Charges Affect Your Record and Future

A domestic violence charge is more than a temporary legal issue—it can have long-lasting consequences that impact nearly every area of your life. In New York, a conviction for domestic violence can lead to a permanent criminal record, loss of employment opportunities, loss of gun rights, and restrictions on housing, education, and family life.

Understanding these consequences is essential if you are facing accusations, and knowing how to fight the charges early can make all the difference. One of the most serious effects of a domestic violence conviction is the criminal record.

Even a misdemeanor charge, such as harassment or simple assault, can remain on your record indefinitely unless sealed or expunged under specific legal conditions. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards often conduct background checks, and a domestic violence conviction can disqualify you from jobs, professional licenses, and housing opportunities.

Additionally, if you are convicted of a domestic violence offense involving physical harm or threats, federal law prohibits you from owning or possessing firearms. This restriction is automatic and permanent unless overturned through a legal process. This can have a significant impact on careers in law enforcement, the military, or security services.

Beyond the legal penalties, domestic violence charges can affect family law matters, including divorce, custody, and visitation. Courts may issue orders of protection, limit your access to your children, or even modify custody arrangements based on the outcome of your criminal case.

Because of these serious implications, it is crucial to act quickly and strategically. Our domestic abuse attorneys in Poughkeepsie, NY understand the importance of protecting not just your freedom, but also your future. We work to challenge the validity of accusations, uncover inconsistencies in evidence, and negotiate to reduce or dismiss charges when possible.

False or exaggerated allegations are not uncommon, particularly in the context of high-conflict relationships or custody disputes. That’s why it’s critical to have experienced legal counsel on your side. Our domestic abuse attorneys in Poughkeepsie, NY are committed to defending your rights with discretion and determination.

At Kimberly Pelesz New York Law, LLC, we fight to protect your record, your reputation, and your future. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.

Schedule a confidential consultation today.