Cities often house diverse populations that bring their own attitudes and approaches to human interaction—from expressions of love to expressions of anger.  The Jersey City, New Jersey Health Department recently won a grant that may help combat domestic violence in communities in the city. The grant could be a game changer for a state that sits in the middle of the pack in terms of domestic violence cases. It is estimated that 35.8% of women in New Jersey have experienced domestic violence.

But what happens when domestic violence cases arise in communities with different traditions and cultural expressions? The truth is that domestic violence is an accusation that can be complicated by issues of language, family, and culture. The grant to the Jersey City Health Department seeks to bridge the gap between one's personal background and the law. If you've been accused of domestic violence, call the Lento Law Firm at (888) 535-3686 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

What the Federal Grant Funds

The funding that the Jersey City Health Department is receiving came out of an award of $500,000 thanks to an application from two U.S. Senators—Bob Menendez and Cory Booker. The grant is intended to help communities learn about violence intervention and improve the safety of neighborhoods. The New Jersey grant will fund a 27-week program for 300 people.

The goal of the funded programs is to disrupt cycles of violence with community-based solutions.

Cultural Challenges

The nonprofit organization that will expand thanks to the grant's funding aims to address cultural misunderstandings in the Jersey City community. They respond to domestic violence issues in the community in languages they understand, bringing in professionals who speak Hindi and Urdu. They'll also address cultural differences—challenges that the community may face that result in charges that may be difficult to combat if they go to a courtroom.

Mandatory Arrest for Domestic Violence

Sometimes, when a call is made to 911 and officers respond, they are required to make an arrest for domestic violence. The officer on the scene will assess the situation to see if there is a case of domestic violence:

• The purported victim has a sufficiently close relationship with the person they are accusing and exhibits signs of an injury caused by an eligible domestic violence offense
• There is probable cause to believe that a no-contact order has been violated
• A warrant is in effect
• There is probable cause to believe that a weapon was used

In these cases, the accused may be arrested and taken into custody—no matter where that arrest takes place. This can lead to embarrassment, including damaging your professional or personal reputation.

If you or someone in your family has been accused of domestic violence, the Lento Law Firm can help you develop the best possible defense and be sure you or your loved one is given due process. The New Jersey Criminal Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm can help.

Call the Lento Law Firm at (888) 535-3686 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.