Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges escaped domestic violence charges after his accuser gave conflicting accounts of what happened. Police responded to a call last October, and they found a woman and her children in a vehicle with a broken windshield. The woman told police that another woman had caused the damage but, days later, claimed that Bridges had inflicted the damage. Later, the woman said she didn't know how her car was damaged. Bridges was charged with allegedly violating a domestic violence protection order, misdemeanor child abuse, and injury to personal property. But later, the Charlotte Mecklenburg County Court said the accuser's conflicting accounts offered "insufficient evidence" against Bridges and dropped the charges.  

If someone accuses you of domestic violence, you need a strong defense attorney on your side. Contact the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team today at 888.535.3686 or through our online form to build a strong case in your defense and ensure the best possible outcome in your case.  

Domestic Violence Acts are Crimes Under New Jersey Law 

In New Jersey, "domestic violence" itself is not defined as a specific criminal offense. However, many acts that constitute domestic violence are crimes under New Jersey law. Domestic violence refers to a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that one partner uses to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner or household member. It can include physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats that influence or harm the other person.  

While there is no penal statute that criminalizes domestic violence per se, there are numerous criminal offenses that may be charged in domestic violence situations, depending on the specific acts committed. Some examples include: 

• Simple Assault  
• Aggravated Assault  
• Terroristic Threats  
• Stalking  
• Criminal Mischief  
• Harassment  
• Sexual Assault  
• Criminal Restraint  
• False Imprisonment  

So, in New Jersey, a person would be charged with one or more of these specific criminal offenses for acts committed in a domestic violence context rather than a general charge of "domestic violence." 

The New Jersey Prevention of Domestic Violence Act does provide additional civil protections and remedies for victims, including the ability to obtain restraining orders. But the act itself does not define any new crimes.  

The specific criminal charges brought against someone can impact the severity of the case and potential penalties. More serious felony-level crimes like aggravated assault or sexual assault carry heavier potential sentences than misdemeanor-level offenses like harassment. Repeated domestic violence offenses can also lead to enhanced charges and penalties. 

Need a Strong Defense Team in New Jersey? Contact the Lento Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team Today. 

While domestic violence is not technically a separate crime in New Jersey, abusive acts in domestic relationships can be prosecuted under various criminal statutes depending on the circumstances. If you face accusations of domestic violence, it's important that you secure a strong legal defense to protect your rights and your future. Contact the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team today at 888.535.3686 or through our online form to fight for your rights and secure the best outcome possible in your case.