Domestic Abuse

Being accused of domestic abuse in Hawaii is quite a serious matter. The consequences of being registered as a perpetrator of domestic abuse or of being convicted of domestic abuse can be damaging in both the immediate time frame and on a permanent basis. The Hawaii domestic abuse lawyers of Harrison & Matsuoka provide determined, thorough and effective representation for individuals who are accused of domestic abuse. Similarly, we are respected both within the legal community and the Hawaii court system as leaders among Hawaii domestic violence attorneys, and as top tier spousal abuse lawyers, and as the leading child abuse law firm.

Defining Domestic Abuse in Hawaii

 The Hawaii legislature (See http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/site1/hrs/default.asp) provides specific definition of domestic abuse (see Chapter 586, Section 1: Definitions). According to the Hawaii legislature, domestic abuse is considered to be at play when any one or combination of the following happens between members of a family or members of a household:

• Assault

• Bodily injury

• Physical harm

• Threatening of physical assault, bodily injury or physical harm in the immediate future

• Psychological abuse of an extreme nature

• Property damage of a malicious nature

In general, domestic abuse fits a pattern of deliberately abusive behavior of one member of a close relationship against another. This abuse typically has a function of obtaining power and control over the other partner.

Consequences of Domestic Abuse Registration and Conviction

 The consequences of being accused of domestic abuse can be quite severe. They can include arrest, being listed as a domestic abuser, being removed from family, being required to post extremely large bail, being required to appear in court many times, suffering the loss of income, respect, family ties, and more. It can likewise include incarceration.

Defending Individuals Accused of Domestic Abuse

Situations appearing as Hawaii domestic violence quite often are not as clear as they originally may seem. Police and other enforcement officials are likely to jump to conclusions based on immediate appearances, without truly understanding the complexity of the situation. The dynamics of the family, the history involved the nature of the relationship, the nature of the accuser and more need to come in to play as well.