Chad Johnson was ordered to serve thirty (30) days in jail after the judge interpreted his courtroom behavior as disrespectful. Johnson was previously convicted of Battery Domestic Violence and required to attend counseling and do community service as a part of his sentence. Earlier this year, Johnson was accused of violating his probation by failing to meet his requirements. However, his lawyer was able to reach an agreement with the prosecution on the Probation Violation that would not have required any additional jail time. Johnson was in court recently to formalize the negotiated agreement. After the judge complimented Johnson's lawyer and told Johnson that he got a favorable deal, Johnson slapped his attorney on the butt, reportedly as a sign of respect and gratitude. However, the judge didn't see it that way. When the courtroom laughed at Johnson's gesture, the judge became irate, accused Johnson of not taking the court proceedings seriously, and ordered Johnson to serve thirty (30) days in jail.
Battery Domestic Violence is considered a Violent Crime in Nevada and are taken extremely seriously by its courts. The Las Vegas Justice Court has even developed a "specialty court" which handles exclusively domestic violence cases. Battery Domestic Violence cases arguably carry the most serious minimum mandatory penalties available for a misdemeanor offense. In addition, a conviction for Battery Domestic Violence can be used to enhance other domestic violence related charges in the future, can have serious immigration consequences and can bar a person from being able to own or possess a firearm. In addition to the legal consequences, a conviction for Battery Domestic Violence can have devastating personal and professional consequences.
If you or someone you know has been arrested or charged with Battery Domestic Violence, it is important that you contact a Las Vegas Criminal Defense Attorney right away. The Las Vegas Criminal Defense Lawyers at Brown Law Offices can assist you in analyzing the facts of your case, identifying applicable defenses and developing the most aggressive defense strategy possible to protect you and your legal rights.