Family Law
At Downs Rachlin Martin PLLC (DRM), the experienced and dedicated Schoenberg Family Law team provides knowledgeable and effective representation regarding criminal defense matters.
It is not uncommon for family law cases to involve allegations of criminal wrongdoing. Most typically, one side accuses the other of being physically abusive or of having engaged in sexual misconduct. If a complaint is made to the police, they will investigate. If the police find evidence that supports a charge, they will send the case to the county State's Attorney for prosecution. When the police finish their investigation they may arrest the accused or, for less serious crimes, give the accused a citation requiring an appearance in court on a particular day to answer a charge. This first court appearance is an "arraignment."
At this time the defendant enters a plea of guilty or not guilty. If a not guilty plea is entered, the state prosecutor and the defendant begin a period called "discovery" where the state is required to tell what it has for evidence of the crime and the parties prepare for a trial and/or attempt to negotiate a resolution.
Only the state of Vermont or the U.S. government can bring criminal charges. Similarly, only the prosecutor's office or a court can dismiss or otherwise resolve a criminal charge. (Contrary to popular belief, it is not open to the alleged victim of the crime to either press or drop a charge). A criminal case may be resolved with a plea agreement between the state and the defendant, by a jury trial or by a judge sitting alone.
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Getting to the heart of an issue is essential to effectively resolving family law problems. But, when criminal charges are lodged, quick, decisive actions are required. Our criminal defense lawyers are prepared to take immediate steps to ensure that your rights are preserved and that you receive appropriate recourse.
Led by Debra Schoenberg, who is widely known in the field and is a frequent lecturer on complex family law topics, DRM’s family law team includes eight attorneys and two legal professionals offering sharp legal skills and comprehensive services in a broad spectrum of family law matters.
Keenly aware of the emotionally-charged nature of most family law issues, our family law team responds rapidly to clients’ needs, making every effort to ensure that you are informed about the status of your case and what steps are to be taken next.
To explore how the DRM Schoenberg Family Law group can assist you with a criminal defense matter, contact Practice Group Chair Debra Schoenberg.
Because we know that family law issues often can’t wait for "convenient" business hours, our 24/7 answering service can be reached during non-business hours at 802-860-8074. We respond promptly to messages left with the answering service.
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