Audiencia obligatoria en casos de violencia conyugal en Virginia

Explicación Simple

Si alguien es acusado de lastimar a su pareja, primero debe ir a una audiencia donde se decide si necesita ayuda, como terapia. Si la persona acepta, puede que el cargo se elimine si cumple con lo que se le pide.

Es como cuando un jugador de fútbol comete una falta grave; en lugar de ser expulsado de inmediato, el entrenador decide si necesita una charla y entrenamiento antes de seguir jugando.

Ejemplo Práctico

Imagina que Juan es acusado de un delito menor contra su esposa, María. Antes de que el caso continúe, el juez envía a Juan a una audiencia donde se determina si necesita terapia. Si Juan acepta y completa la terapia, el juez puede decidir no seguir con el cargo.

Texto Original del Estatuto (Inglés)

Va. Code § 19.2-218.2 - Hearing before juvenile and domestic relations district court required for persons accused of certain violations against their spouses. A. In any case involving a violation of § 18.2-61 , 18.2-67.1 , or 18.2-67.2 where the complaining witness is the spouse of the accused, where a preliminary hearing pursuant to § 19.2-218.1 has not been held prior to indictment or trial, the court shall refer the case to the appropriate juvenile and domestic relations district court for a hearing to determine whether counseling or therapy is appropriate prior to further disposition unless the hearing is waived in writing by the accused. The court conducting this hearing may order counseling or therapy for the accused in compliance with the guidelines set forth in § 19.2-218.1 . B. After such hearing pursuant to which the accused has completed counseling or therapy and upon the recommendation of the juvenile and domestic relations district court judge conducting the hearing, the judge of the circuit court may dismiss the charge with the consent of the attorney for the Commonwealth and if the court finds such action will promote maintenance of the family unit and be in the best interest of the complaining witness. 1986, c. 516; 2005, c. 631 . Va. Code § 19.2-219 - When capias need not be issued; summons; judgment. No capias need be issued on a presentment or indictment of an offense for which there is no punishment but a fine or forfeiture, limited to an amount not exceeding twenty dollars; but a summons to answer such presentment or indictment may be issued against the accused; and if it be served ten days before the return day thereof, and he does not appear, judgment may be rendered against him for the penalty. If he appear, the court may, unless he demand a