Substance Abuse Linked to Domestic Violence

The National Resource Center on Domestic Violence shows a clear link between substance abuse and domestic violence. Statistics indicate that up to 50 percent of men who are in counseling for domestic abuse are identified as substance abusers.

Domestic Violence is a Growing Concern

In the United States, domestic violence in dating relationships and marriages is a growing concern. According to Futures Without Violence, at least three women are murdered by their boyfriends or husbands every day. Nearly one in four women report experiencing domestic violence by a current or former partner at some point in their relationship. Statistics show that 75 percent of domestic abusers are male, and women between the ages of 20 to 24 are at the highest risk for non-fatal domestic violence. Sexual assaults and domestic violence on college campuses are on the rise, and most attacks seen by an assault lawyer are linked to alcohol and/or drug abuse.

More than 15 million children in the U.S. live in families where domestic violence occurred at least once in the past year, and seven million children live in families where severe injuries occurred from domestic violence. In Minnesota, children were present in one-third of cases that resulted in the death of their mother in 2016.

Substance Abuse and Domestic Violence

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is a definite link between substance abuse and domestic violence. Studies show that between 25 and 50 percent of men who commit domestic violence have substance abuse problems. In reported incidences of domestic violence, more than 30 percent of abusers were drinking at the time of the assault, and 90 percent abused substances including alcohol and cocaine on the day of the assault. In reported cases where men attempted to kill their partner, alcohol was involved in over two-thirds of cases. In cases where men actually killed their partner, 25 percent were under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

Approximately 75 percent of domestic violence victims who have substance abuse problems are with a partner who also has a substance abuse problem. Although heroin and cocaine are linked to high rates of domestic violence, marijuana use on a frequent basis and prescription pain medications like oxycodone and vicodin are also linked to incidences of domestic violence. An assault lawyer in Minnesota commonly sees sexual assault and domestic violence cases that involve alcohol and/or drug abuse or addiction.

Max Keller has won countless jury trial cases involving misdemeanors and felonies, sex crimes, and DWI’s. He is a member of the Minnesota Society for Criminal Justice, which only allows the top 50 criminal defense attorneys in the state as members. Max is a frequent speaker at CLE’s and is often asked for advice by other defense attorneys across Minnesota.

Years of Experience: Approx. 20 years
Minnesota Registration Status: Active
Bar & Court Admissions: State of Minnesota Minnesota State Court Minnesota Federal Court 8th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals State of Maryland

What to Do If You Have Been Charged with a Criminal Offense

How a DWI Affects CDL Holders in Minnesota

Commercial motor vehicle drivers arrested or charged with driving while impaired (DWI) may need to know how a DWI affects CDL holders in Minnesota. You will lose your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) for at least a year if you are convicted of DWI for the first time, and forever after a second conviction. The consequences go beyond the immediate legal implications of a DWI conviction. A CDL suspension or revocation will lead to job loss, difficulty finding employment, and serious financial challenges.

How a DWI Affects Rideshare Drivers in Minnesota

Knowing how a DWI affects rideshare drivers in Minnesota allows you to take the right steps to protect your license and livelihood. A DWI conviction will lead to suspension or cancellation of your driver’s license. Once you lose your license, you will be ineligible for a work permit required to work for rideshare companies as a driver. You may also face jail time, fines, or ignition interlock device (IID) installation, depending on the seriousness and number of related offenses on your record.

Can Police Search Your Phone Without a Warrant in Minnesota?

People under criminal investigation or whose phones have been seized by law enforcement officers may ask, “Can police search your phone without a warrant in Minnesota?” It’s illegal for police to search your phone without a warrant. However, there are exceptions to the warrant requirement. These exceptions include when you consent to the search, someone’s life is in danger, or there is an immediate risk of evidence destruction.