Defending Against Family Violence Charges: How a Private Investigator Can Help

At Gradoni & Associates, we understand the life-altering consequences that come with being charged in a family violence case. Since our inception in 1989, we have worked on hundreds of cases involving allegations of family violence. In our experience, these charges are among the most emotionally charged and complex situations that defendants face.

In most cases, family violence charges arise from a 911 call reporting a verbal or physical altercation. Law enforcement’s immediate priority is to protect the alleged victim, often the female partner, and visible injuries typically lead to the male partner being taken into custody. Unfortunately, this rush to judgment often means that critical witness statements and other evidence are overlooked.

The Reality of Family Violence Charges

While every case is different, there are common patterns we’ve observed over decades of investigative work:

• Immediate Arrests: If visible bruising is found, law enforcement typically arrests
  the male partner regardless of context or circumstances.
• Ignored Self-Defense Claims: When a male defendant claims he was attacked first,
  officers rarely give this defense much weight unless there is video evidence.
• Changed Minds: After the initial conflict, the female partner often decides
  she does not want to proceed with prosecution. This happens for various reasons, such as:
  • To gain an advantage in custody disputes
  • To have the partner temporarily removed from the home
  • Realizing the financial and family strain caused by prosecution

Even when the alleged victim changes their stance, prosecutors may continue pursuing the case. Many defendants are surprised to learn that charges can move forward without the alleged victim’s cooperation.

How a Private Investigator Strengthens the Defense

When facing family violence charges, the right investigative work can mean the difference between conviction and dismissal.
At Gradoni & Associates, our investigators step in to ensure every side of the story is heard. Here is a look at how we can help strengthen your position:

• Witness Interviews: We locate and interview all available witnesses whose statements may have been ignored by law enforcement.
• Affidavits of Non-Prosecution: If the alleged victim no longer wishes to pursue charges, we assist attorneys in obtaining affidavits to support dismissal requests.
• False Statement Affidavits: If the alleged victim admits to making false statements, we help document this formally, although prosecutors may still be hesitant to dismiss, especially if there’s a prior history of family violence.
• Case History Analysis: We carefully examine the defendant’s record to assess whether prior arrests will influence prosecutorial decisions.

Our role is to uncover overlooked evidence, present the facts, and give defense attorneys the tools they need to challenge weak or biased cases.

Why the Right Team Matters

Family violence charges carry significant risks to your freedom, reputation, and future. Even when the alleged victim wishes to move on, prosecutors may push forward to secure a conviction. That’s why it’s essential to hire an experienced defense attorney and a skilled investigative team.

At Gradoni & Associates, our investigative expertise has helped countless clients navigate these challenging cases. Our investigators, many of whom are retired law enforcement officers, know exactly where to look for weaknesses in the State’s case and how to build a defense strategy that ensures your side of the story is heard.

Gradoni & Associates: Your Investigative Partners Since 1989

If you or someone you love is facing a family violence charge, don’t take chances with your future. At Gradoni & Associates, we’ve been assisting attorneys and defendants in criminal defense cases across Houston and beyond for more than three decades. Our commitment is clear: The truth makes a difference, and we are committed to leaving no stone unturned. Call (281) 440-0800 to speak with Keith Kuficer, Chief Investigator, or connect with us online today!

Proudly offering superior investigative services to the business and legal community in Houston, TX, and beyond since 1989.