If you're charged with a domestic violence offense in Pennsylvania, depending on the circumstances, you may have to undergo domestic violence counseling. That could be required if a defendant is, for example, found guilty by going to trial for domestic violence charges or if they were to plead guilty. It could be a condition of his or her sentence or as an alternative to going to trial or pleading guilty in some limited instances, the defendant may be eligible or can arrange to become eligible for a domestic violence diversion program.
In doing so, the expectation in part would be that the defendant would have to undergo domestic violence counseling and potentially other conditions. If the defendant has successfully complied, the case could be potentially withdrawn to avoid a conviction. There could be certain benefits in undergoing such a program. Discussing the matter with an experienced Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney will have you best understand how to best move forward and to defend against allegations of domestic violence. An experienced attorney should be involved in your corner from as early as possible in the case.
