Being accused of domestic violence can be both terrifying and overwhelming. Your life can change in the blink of an eye, even when these accusations are completely unfounded. Maybe you’ve been removed from your home near Hero Park, or you are barred from seeing your children, even at school events at Arbor Elementary. Whatever your case entails, it is crucial that you seek legal guidance from an experienced Euclid domestic violence lawyer.
Standing in the aftermath of a domestic violence allegation can feel both isolating and unfair. Allegations can carry serious weight for both your personal life and in relation to the legal system. It is normal to worry, but this worry can be eased when you retain the services of a trusted criminal defense lawyer.

At Fortress Law Group, LLC, we have been serving individuals across Cuyahoga County for 15 years when it comes to criminal defense. As former prosecutors, our attorneys know how both sides of the courtroom handle these cases, and they can use this knowledge to your case’s advantage.
Our lead attorney, Matthew C. Bangerter, Esquire, is a member of the Ohio Bar Association, the Lake County Bar Association, and the Cuyahoga Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, and he acts on the Board of Directors of the Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Our attorneys take their roles as your legal protectors extremely seriously. Let us protect your rights today and help you explore opportunities such as record sealing or expungement when applicable.
In the United States, 24 people face physical abuse or stalking by an intimate partner every minute. Domestic violence charges can be brought when an individual has allegedly caused harm, has attempted to cause harm, or has threatened to cause harm against a family or household member.
It is important that you understand how a family or household member is defined, as this will allow you to better understand your case and the defense strategies that may be available to you. Family or household members include:
In Ohio, there are a number of types of abuse that are recognized as domestic violence. It is important to remember that not all domestic violence needs to include physical assaults or even physical contact. The most common kinds of domestic violence include:
If you have been accused of any of these types of domestic violence or abuse, the team at Fortress Law Group, LLC, is here to advocate for and protect your rights.
According to a recent study, one in every 10 Americans accused of abuse or domestic violence is actually facing false allegations. At Fortress Law Group, LLC, we are here to review your case and demonstrate to the courts how these allegations are false or prove to them the reason you acted the way you did.
Common defense strategies for domestic violence allegations include:
Protect Your Reputation and Future — Speak With a Defense Attorney Now
For a domestic violence conviction, there can be a number of collateral consequences outside the typical legal penalties. These include the loss of your firearm rights, an increased difficulty in finding work (as individuals with a permanent criminal record face a 30% unemployment rate), issues regarding your immigration opportunities, and limitations on child custody and visitation rights.
In a domestic violence protection order, several conditions are often included. The alleged offender may be prevented from visiting the supposed victim’s home, school, or place of work. The alleged offender can also be ordered to refrain from any kind of abuse or sexually oriented offense against the supposed victim.
There are several circumstances under which a misdemeanor domestic violence charge can be elevated to a felony. These can include circumstances where the alleged victim is pregnant, cases where the accused party has a prior domestic violence conviction, or cases where serious physical harm was caused, or a weapon was used.
In Euclid, Ohio, charges of domestic violence can only be dropped if the prosecutor or the judge involved in the case chooses to do so. If a supposed victim walks back their accusations, the prosecution and/or judge can still bring these charges forward if they believe the charges are valid or if they believe there is a continued threat of harm to the victim.
Facing a domestic violence accusation and charge in Euclid can be stressful and prove to be one of the most difficult events of your life. You may be worrying about facing prison time, being taken from your home, or being separated from your children. Thankfully, you do not have to face these fears and worries on your own. The team at Fortress Law Group, LLC, is here for you. Contact our offices today to schedule a consultation and hire a domestic violence lawyer.
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“Attorney Matt Bangerter and his administrator Mia made it easy for me to provide the information they needed for my case through their online portal. Mia was always available to answer questions. Today, at court, Matt negotiated an incredibly positive outcome. I am pleased to recommend Fortress Law Group, LLC for your legal matters.” – Linda
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“I can’t thank Matt enough for everything he did for me during my case. From the start he was honest knowledgeable and trustworthy. In court he was confident and professional, it was clear he knew exactly what he was doing. If you are in a tough spot and need someone to fight for you I highly recommend Fortress Law Group.” – Sarah
★★★★★
“Mr. Bangerter is a very professional lawyer. All questions were kept confidential and answered quickly. If needed would definitely use his services again.” – Lynn Hupp


Founder, Fortress Law Group, LLC
Matthew draws on his unique background as a former Assistant Prosecutor and his scientific expertise in molecular genetics to bring unparalleled precision and strategy to criminal defense in Northeast Ohio. Whether you’re facing misdemeanor charges, serious felony indictments, or federal prosecution, he builds defense strategies rooted in forensic evidence analysis, cutting-edge legal theory, and an unwavering commitment to protecting your constitutional rights and positioning you for the strongest outcome in court.