Charges involving family violence can carry serious consequences. Those finding themselves on the defending side of a domestic violence charge should understand the possible penalties a domestic violence conviction can have, including a protective order, a damaged reputation and a criminal record. It is also important for defendants to understand their rights under the law.

A 41-year-old man from Gig Harbor was charged with second-degree murder after his 29-year-old girlfriend died as a result of injuries allegedly stemming from a beating. The woman was brought to the hospital on Sept. 26 and was found to have a collapsed lung, possible broken wrist, internal injuries, three broken ribs and multiple bruises, as well as a broken neck bone, according to reports.

Police allege that the man said the woman's injuries were a result of a fall and that she had spent the past three days on the couch because of her injuries. He said he did not get medical treatment for her sooner because they did not have any insurance. According to police, however, the woman told them while in the hospital that her boyfriend had beaten her, and her family corroborated her story of the man's alleged history of domestic violence.

After her death on Oct. 5, an autopsy was performed and, according to the medical examiner, she died as a result of blunt-force trauma to the chest and abdomen.

It is critical for anyone facing domestic violence charges to act quickly and seek to understand the charges against them. Seeking experienced legal advice may be beneficial.

Source: kirotv.com, "Man charged with murder after girlfriend dies from beating," Oct. 8, 2012