Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic Violence Lawyer In Van Nuys And San Fernando

Defending Clients from Domestic Violence Charges in Los Angeles, San Fernando, Van Nuys, Palmdale, & Lancaster

Domestic violence crimes are punished severely to protect the public and their children from harm by intimate partners, family members, and household members. Under domestic violence laws, you may be charged with a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the nature of the offense, any injuries inflicted upon the alleged victim, and whether you have prior convictions. Convictions can result in jail or prison sentences, large fines, probation, and restraining orders that remove you from a shared residence, order you to stay away and make no contact with the protected person, and can restrict you in many other ways.

It is a well-known fact that many domestic violence accusations are based on exaggerations, misrepresentations, and falsehoods. Accusers may do so based on jealousy, spite, or revenge when relationships break down or to gain leverage in a divorce or child custody case. You will need a smart and tenacious criminal defense lawyer in your corner as soon as possible when facing these charges. At DCD LAW, our San Fernando domestic violence attorney has been handling these types of cases for 10 years. Our firm knows how to investigate all of the facts thoroughly and independently to expose any flaws in your arrest and charges.

Have you been accused of domestic violence? Call DCD LAW today at (818) 740-5582 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our San Fernando domestic violence attorney.

Domestic Violence Charges In Los Angeles, California

The two most common domestic violence charges include:

Corporal injury to a spouse, cohabitant, or intimate partner (Penal Code PC 273.5)
Domestic battery (Penal Code PC 243(e)(1))

Other domestic violence charges can include:

Child abuse
Child endangerment
Child neglect
Elder abuse
Stalking
Criminal threats
Revenge porn
Aggravated trespassing
Damaging a phone line
Posting harmful material on the web

Penalties for Domestic Violence in California

The penalties you may face in any domestic violence case can include the following:

Jail time
Heavy fines
Victim restitution for medical and other expenses
Participation in a batterer’s program
Being subject to a protective order (restraining order)
Community service hours
Summary or formal probation
A permanent criminal record
Loss of your gun rights
Loss of child custody rights
Immigration problems for noncitizens

Summary probation involves being under the direct supervision of the court, which will oversee your compliance with the terms of your probation. It is generally ordered when convicted of a misdemeanor and may last for one to five years, depending on the case. It may or may not include some jail time.

Formal probation involves having to report to a probation officer. It may last from three to five years and is typically used in felony cases.

Should you violate the terms of your probation, you can be sentenced to serve the remainder of your original jail or prison term by the court.

Protective Orders

Domestic violence cases commonly result in protective orders being issued by the court to protect the alleged victim from any further acts of violence. These orders can seriously impact your life as the named person who is under the order’s restrictions. You will likely be ordered to vacate the residence you share with the protected person, make no contact with him or her of any kind, and your custody rights may be limited or lost.

These orders generally instruct you to keep away from the protected person within a certain distance, including staying away from where the protected person lives, works or frequents. Other restrictions and orders may apply, such as being made to pay for child support. These orders are specific to each case as determined by the judge.

Contact a Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyer Today

Because of the severe penalties you face in any domestic violence charge, it is essential that you protect yourself, your freedom, and your future with competent representation. Turn to our San Fernando domestic violence lawyer at DCD LAW for dedicated and proven legal help in these serious cases.

Contact DCD LAW today to get started on your defense with our domestic violence lawyer in San Fernando.

Frequently Asked Questions on DCD LAW

What should I do if I'm falsely accused of domestic violence?

Unfortunately, countless people are false accused of domestic violence. Oftentimes, the accuser is lashing out due to problems in the relationship, jealous, having a mental episode, and even trying to obtain custody of children. We have even seen accusers make false accusations in order to try and obtain citizenship. If falsely accused of domestic violence, you should document all interactions, gather any evidence that supports your innocence, and contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. An attorney can help you manage the legal process and build a strong defense.

What constitutes domestic violence under California law?

Domestic violence under California law includes physical abuse, threats, or any behavior that harms or intimidates a spouse, cohabitant, intimate partner, or family member. This can also include emotional, psychological, or economic abuse. Domestic violence cases can be filed for incidents that are minor all the way up to the most serious misconduct.

Can I defend myself against domestic violence charges?

Yes, you can defend yourself against domestic violence charges. Possible defenses include proving false accusations, lack of evidence, self-defense, or the incident not meeting the legal definition of domestic violence. An experienced attorney like DCD LAW can help present a solid defense. Over the past decade, we have been incredibly successful in winning domestic violence cases before Trial and at Trial.

Can a domestic violence conviction affect my immigration status?

A domestic violence conviction can have severe consequences on immigration status, potentially leading to deportation or affecting eligibility for visas, residency, and naturalization. It’s crucial to seek legal advice to understand and mitigate these risks.

Is it possible to have a domestic violence charge expunged from my record?

In California, it’s possible to have a domestic violence charge expunged if you meet specific legal requirements, such as completing probation successfully. Expungement can help clear your criminal record, improving future employment and personal opportunities.

What happens to my gun rights if I am convicted of domestic rights?

Unfortunately, a conviction for domestic violence to a lifetime ban to own, use, or possess any firearm. Although a misdemeanor conviction for domestic violence will often lead to a 10-year ban of gun rights in California, and a felony will result in a lifetime ban, federal law under 18 USC 922(g) will lead to a lifetime ban of gun rights, no matter whether the domestic violence conviction is for a misdemeanor or felony. This is the harsh reality for many clients.