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Is domestic violence a felony in Tennessee?

Is Domestic Violence a Felony in Tennessee?

Domestic violence is a serious and widespread issue that affects thousands of individuals and families in Tennessee every year. As a state, Tennessee takes domestic violence very seriously, and the laws surrounding it are designed to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.

Is Domestic Violence a Felony in Tennessee?

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The short answer is: yes, domestic violence can be a felony in Tennessee. However, the specific circumstances and the severity of the offense play a significant role in determining whether it is a felony or a misdemeanor.

Tennessee Domestic Violence Laws

In Tennessee, domestic violence is defined as "an act of physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or the infliction of fear of imminent physical harm, bodily injury, or assault" committed against a family or household member. Family or household members include:

  • Spouses
  • Ex-spouses
  • Former spouses
  • People with a child in common
  • People who have been involved in a romantic relationship
  • People who have lived together
  • People who have a biological or adopted relationship

Felony Domestic Violence in Tennessee

In Tennessee, domestic violence can be charged as a felony if the perpetrator has a prior conviction for domestic violence or if the victim is seriously injured. Here are the specific circumstances under which domestic violence can be charged as a felony in Tennessee:

  • Prior conviction: If the perpetrator has a prior conviction for domestic violence, the current offense can be charged as a felony.
  • Serious injury: If the victim is seriously injured, the perpetrator can be charged with felony domestic violence.
  • Aggravated circumstances: If the perpetrator uses a deadly weapon, causes serious bodily harm, or commits the offense in the presence of a child, the offense can be charged as a felony.

Felony Penalties for Domestic Violence in Tennessee

If convicted of felony domestic violence in Tennessee, the perpetrator can face serious penalties, including:

Misdemeanor Domestic Violence in Tennessee

If the domestic violence offense does not meet the criteria for a felony, it can be charged as a misdemeanor. Here are the specific circumstances under which domestic violence can be charged as a misdemeanor in Tennessee:

  • First-time offense
  • No serious injury
  • No prior conviction

Misdemeanor Penalties for Domestic Violence in Tennessee

If convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence in Tennessee, the perpetrator can face less severe penalties, including:

  • Up to 11 months and 29 days in jail
  • Fines up to $2,500
  • Counseling and treatment
  • Loss of right to possess firearms
  • Loss of right to vote

Consequences of Domestic Violence in Tennessee

Domestic violence can have serious consequences for both the victim and the perpetrator. Some of the consequences of domestic violence in Tennessee include:

  • Physical injuries: Domestic violence can cause physical injuries, including broken bones, bruises, and cuts.
  • Emotional trauma: Domestic violence can cause emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • Financial consequences: Domestic violence can cause financial consequences, including lost income, medical bills, and legal fees.
  • Criminal charges: Domestic violence can result in criminal charges, including felony or misdemeanor charges.

What to Do if You are a Victim of Domestic Violence in Tennessee

If you are a victim of domestic violence in Tennessee, there are resources available to help you. Some of the resources available include:

  • The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
  • The Tennessee Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-356-6767
  • Local law enforcement
  • Local courts
  • Counseling and treatment services

Conclusion

Domestic violence is a serious issue in Tennessee, and the laws surrounding it are designed to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable. If you are a victim of domestic violence in Tennessee, it is important to seek help and support. If you are a perpetrator of domestic violence in Tennessee, it is important to seek help and counseling to address your behavior.

Table: Domestic Violence Laws in Tennessee

OffensePenalty
Misdemeanor Domestic ViolenceUp to 11 months and 29 days in jail, fines up to $2,500
Felony Domestic ViolenceUp to 15 years in prison, fines up to $5,000
Aggravated Felony Domestic ViolenceUp to 20 years in prison, fines up to $10,000

Bullets: Domestic Violence Consequences

  • Physical injuries
  • Emotional trauma
  • Financial consequences
  • Criminal charges
  • Loss of right to possess firearms
  • Loss of right to vote

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