Protect your rights, reputation and future.
Domestic violence allegations can bring immediate restrictions and long-term consequences. Get clear guidance before taking actions that may affect your case.
The full story matters.
These cases often arise from fast-moving, emotional situations in which accounts of what happened may differ.
The Corso Firm reviews the accusation, available evidence, witness accounts and any court-imposed conditions.
- Battery constituting domestic violence allegations
- Protective-order and no-contact concerns
- Witness statements and available records
- Felony or misdemeanor exposure
Potential BDV penalties under Nevada law
Battery constituting domestic violence in Nevada is governed primarily by NRS 200.485, with escalating penalties for first, second and third offenses committed within seven years.
Nevada defines battery as a willful and unlawful use of force or violence upon another person. Under NRS 33.018, domestic violence can include a battery committed against a spouse or former spouse, certain relatives, a current or former dating partner, a co-parent, a minor child, or a person in a specified custodial or guardianship relationship.
| Offense level | Confinement | Fines | Additional mandatory penalties |
|---|---|---|---|
| First offense within 7 years Misdemeanor | 2 days to 6 months in jail | $200–$1,000 | 48–120 hours of community service and at least 6 months of weekly counseling |
| Second offense within 7 years Misdemeanor | 20 days to 6 months in jail | $500–$1,000 | 100–200 hours of community service and at least 12 months of weekly counseling |
| Third offense within 7 years Category B felony | 1–6 years in Nevada State Prison | $1,000–$5,000 | Probation and suspension of the felony sentence are prohibited |
| BDV by strangulation Category C felony | 1–5 years in Nevada State Prison | Up to $10,000 | Felony penalties may apply regardless of prior record; a greater penalty may apply in some circumstances |
This summary describes general statutory ranges. The precise charge and potential consequences depend on the alleged conduct, injuries, prior record and other facts.
Critical statutory rules
- Firearm restrictions: Nevada law prohibits firearm ownership or possession after a qualifying BDV conviction and requires the permanent surrender, sale or transfer of firearms. Federal law also generally prohibits firearm and ammunition possession after a qualifying misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, subject to federal definitions and limited exceptions or restoration provisions. See NRS 202.360 and the ATF federal guidance.
- The alleged victim cannot unilaterally dismiss the charge: A criminal case is controlled by the prosecuting authority. A request to drop the charge, a recantation or a decision not to cooperate does not automatically end the prosecution.
- Substantial bodily harm: BDV causing substantial bodily harm is generally a category B felony carrying 1–6 years in prison and a possible fine of $1,000–$5,000.
- Deadly weapon allegations: Under NRS 200.481, battery with a deadly weapon may carry 2–10 years in prison without substantial bodily harm, or 2–15 years when substantial bodily harm results or strangulation is involved, plus a possible fine of up to $10,000.
Know your rights and potential penalties. Speak with Attorney Joseph S. Meloro.
Your side deserves to be heard.
Speak directly with Attorney Joseph S. Meloro about the accusation and the next court date.
Call (702) 899-4582