Los Angeles Domestic Violence Attorney

Being accused of domestic violence can have significant implications for your future and should be taken seriously. Fortunately, there are options to seek representation and reduce your chances of a domestic violence conviction.

You don't have to navigate the intricacies of the legal system by yourself if you've been accused of domestic abuse or related crimes. Instead, you can work with a Los Angeles domestic violence attorney who can aid you in understanding your legal rights and responsibilities.

An accusation isn't something to take lightly, and you must have legal professionals advocating for you. That can make addressing your case easier and also help you have more peace of mind and less stress as the case moves through the legal system.

How Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help if You've Been Accused of Domestic Violence in Los Angeles

How our criminal defense lawyers can help

Our criminal defense lawyers understand the significance of domestic violence charges and how these kinds of charges can disrupt your personal and professional life.

Working with a trusted Los Angeles domestic violence attorney gives you the help and support you need during a difficult time.

No matter the specific facts of your domestic violence case, you deserve a legal advocate to work with you and present your side to the judge or jury.

Securing a much lesser charge or having the charges dropped entirely is possible. The goal is to get you through your case with the best possible outcome, and your attorneys are committed to providing you with a quality defense.

Overview of Domestic Violence Laws in California

Understanding California's domestic violence laws can help you better understand your case and what type of domestic violence charge you're facing. While it's your attorney's job to handle your case, it's still good to know your case's specifics and how California law applies to them.

That can make it simpler for you to work closely with your attorney for a good outcome for your situation.

Penal Code 273.5: Corporal Injury to a Spouse or Cohabitant

The California Penal Code 273.5 addresses corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant, such as a domestic partner.

Even a slight physical injury can be grounds for these charges, which is considered a felony. A first-offense criminal conviction under this part of the penal code can mean one year in the county jail or up to four years in state prison.

Penal Code 243(E)(1): Domestic Battery

The California Penal Code 243(E)(1) is for domestic battery, which is a misdemeanor. Unlike the corporal injury code, this does not require any visible physical injury to be present. Punishment includes up to a year in county jail and a fine of up to $2,000.

Penal Code 273D: Child Abuse

 With California Penal Code 273D, it is a crime to use corporal punishment on a child or to inflict injury on them. The only punishment excluded is reasonable spankings.

Any punishment that inflicts injury or is considered cruel is considered to be abuse. Up to one year in the county jail or three years in the state prison is possible if convicted of this crime.

Penal Code 273(A): Child Endangerment

The child endangerment code, which is California Penal Code 273(A), makes it a crime to allow a child in your care to have their safety or health put at risk if that risk is willful. You also cannot allow the child to willfully suffer harm.

This is usually a misdemeanor offense, but it is a "wobbler" if there is serious bodily injury, which means it could be charged as a felony. Misdemeanor convictions incur a sentence of up to six months in jail.

Penal Code 422: Criminal Threats

Threatening another person with serious harm is considered a criminal offense under California Penal Code 422. This can be charged as a misdemeanor or as a felony, hinging on the details of the case.

Misdemeanors can be punishable by up to one year in county jail, while felonies can include up to four years in prison. Felony convictions are part of the "Three Strikes" law.

Penal Code 273.6: Restraining Order

The California Penal Code 273.6 deals with restraining orders and states that intentionally violating a restraining order is a misdemeanor. Convictions can come with a $1,000 fine and/or up to one year in the county jail.

Domestic Violence Protective Order

Domestic violence protection order

Being subjected to a domestic violence protective order, more commonly called a restraining order, can be a serious concern.

It can be tough to avoid coming into contact with them, especially if children are involved between you and the accuser, or you need to see them for other reasons or are commonly in the same places and spaces.

With that in mind, you do not want to violate a protective order. That could create additional legal problems that you want to avoid, costing you money, time in jail, and a more difficult time making your case.

The ideal route you can take if you have a domestic violence protective order placed against you is to honor that order, even if you disagree with its merits.

That will help protect you and your case more easily because it will show that you follow and respect the law. Whether the order has any merit is not a consideration regarding whether you have to legally follow the order.

Your attorney can work toward having the order dropped, especially if there are extenuating circumstances or the other party was dishonest in the information that led to the order.

Most Common Victims of Domestic Abuse in California

Most common victims of domestic abuse

The most common domestic or spousal abuse victims in California and throughout most of the country are young women, typically between 18 and 24 years of age.

However, it does not imply that other people cannot be victims. Older women, as well as men, can be harmed by domestic violence, as well. Speaking up and speaking out for these victims is very important.

If you are facing domestic violence accusations, though, you should consider securing the assistance of a Los Angeles domestic violence attorney who has strong criminal law experience. That can provide you with the support you need to handle your case and address any wrongful accusations you are facing.

While there are many cases of domestic violence in California every year, and victims should be taken seriously, you are also entitled to uphold your legal rights in case you have been accused of or charged with this kind of crime.

Legal Consequences of Domestic Violence

Legal consequences of domestic violence

The legal repercussions of domestic violence can be very severe. Subject to the specific details of your case, the judgment might be a fine and a short time in jail, or you could end up spending years of your life in prison.

Not only that, but these kinds of criminal charges and convictions often have far-reaching consequences.

You could potentially lose your job or business, for example, and may be unable to work in your chosen profession any longer.

You could end up with other legal battles that come along with the accusation, and being convicted could seriously impact the course of your life in the future.

You do not want to fight against criminal charges like this on your own. It is very crucial to work alongside trusted legal professionals who can help.

Build a Strong Defense Against Domestic Violence Charges

A strong defense against domestic violence charges is vital when you want to protect yourself. Whether you were wrongly accused, there was a misunderstanding, or any other circumstances have occurred, you have the right to defend yourself legally.

To do that, working with an attorney familiar with domestic violence cases for a free consultation to discuss your rights is always ideal. Not only can that help you with your overall defense, but it can increase your peace of mind during the legal process.

Building your defense and moving through the court process could take a while, so you want to contact an attorney right away if you are charged with a domestic violence crime, such as criminal threats or a restraining order violation. Providing your attorney more time to work on your defense will help make it stronger.

Contact Our Experienced Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyer at Hurwitz Law Group for an Initial Consultation Today

Contact our experienced domestic violence lawyer

If you need help from a Los Angeles domestic violence attorney, get in touch with us at Hurwitz Law Group today. You can get a free consultation to address restraining order issues and other domestic violence charges.

We can help you build a quality defense to fight against accusations and charges of domestic violence in the Los Angeles area. Being wrongfully accused of a crime like this means it is time to examine your legal options.

You require an attorney who understands the serious nature of your case and can work with you to formulate a strategy for the best possible outcome.

Don't think twice about reaching out and working with us to get a free case evaluation, so you can get the information and legal support you need.

The right advocate for your needs can make the difference, and you want to consult with an attorney who has the type and level of experience you need to help you settle your case quickly.

Domestic Violence Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

What are the most common warning signs that you may be in a relationship with an abusive person?

You could be in an abusive relationship if you feel unsafe due to your partner's actions or words. Even if you are not living through any physical violence, abuse can also be mental, emotional, and financial.

You deserve to feel protected and secure in your relationship with your partner. If you do not experience those feelings or your partner has made any direct threats toward you, you could be at risk.

When does domestic abuse start?

Domestic abuse can start at nearly any time. Many abusers wait until their victims are "locked in" with them, such as when they are engaged, married, or pregnant. However, this is not always the case.

If you are questioning whether something is abuse, the chances are high that you are at risk and your intuition is trying to warn you about your safety. You do not have to let someone abuse you for any reason. Help is available.

What can I do if I believe my abuser is using technology to track me?

There are ways to check your phone and computer for tracking devices. You can also have your vehicle and belongings checked for tracking devices.

If you believe your abuser is tracking you through technology, contact the police or your attorney. You deserve to be safe and secure, including being safe from technological means of tracking you.

Who should I inform about a protective order that includes my children?

Make sure your attorney knows about any protective order that includes your children. You also need to inform your children's school or daycare so that your children are not picked up by anyone who should not be close to them.

If you leave your children anywhere or with anyone (such as with a babysitter), make sure that person knows who can and cannot interact with your children. You do not want to put your children at risk.

How can I help a friend or family member who is in an abusive relationship in California?

Suppose you have a friend or family member in an abusive relationship in California. In that case, you can be there for them, encourage them to work with domestic violence lawyers, and suggest they contact the domestic abuse hotline.

They may ask for your help, or they may be in denial of their particular situation. You can provide them with resources and a safe place to go. However, make sure you are protecting yourself, as well.

There can be risks in helping someone, even if you want to keep them safe. It is often better to direct them to resources that can remove them from harm's way so you stay safe, too.

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