Actor and comedian Faizon Love, known for his roles in the movies Friday, Elf and Couples Retreat, was arrested Friday night on domestic violence charges. The actor was charged with fourth degree domestic violence, the least serious form of the charge. Despite that, Love remains in jail and is being held without bail. Love was on probation for assault at the time of his arrest. The new charge may constitute a probation violation, which would explain why Love was being held without bail.
Battery Domestic Violence, commonly referred to as "DV," is an extremely serious charge. A conviction for even a first-offense Domestic Violence can result in up to six (6) months in jail, large fines, extensive weekly counseling and the loss of the right to own or possess firearms. It can have disastrous consequences on child custody issues, and can effect educational and employment opportunities. A third conviction for domestic violence can result in long MANDATORY PRISON sentences.
Probation Violations are also extremely serious. Probation violations can, in many - if not most - cases, result in the court imposing an underlying jail or prison sentence. Unlike a standard criminal charge, a person accused of a Probation Violation is not constitutionally entitled to reasonable bail. A person accused of a probation violation can be held without bail until the charge is resolved.
If you or someone you know is charged with a domestic violence related offense or a probation violation, it is important that you contact a Las Vegas Criminal Defense Attorney right away. A Las Vegas Criminal Attorney can assist you in analyzing the facts of your case, identifying appropriate defenses and developing the most aggressive litigation strategy possible to protect your legal rights.