Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a very serious charge in California and involves the abuse, verbal threatening, or physical violence of another person in specific types of relationships. It is possible for an individual who commits a violent or threatening act to be prosecuted even when no harm or endangering the security or safety of the victim was intended. At The Justice Firm, our Los Angeles domestic violence attorneys work vigorously to protect our clients' legal rights and freedom. We understand the serious criminal penalties individuals may face when physical violence, threats, or abuse occur in relationships such as:

• Couples who cohabitate
• Persons who are married (also referred to as spousal abuse)
• Individuals who have children or a child together
• Individuals who were once married but are now divorced
• Individuals in a dating relationship or who dated in the past

A wide array of abuse is encompassed by domestic violence, including child endangerment. This criminal offense is often treated differently than other crimes; for example, special DV (domestic violence) units are typically "at the ready" within the prosecutor's office. These units, as well as prosecutors designated specifically to handle these types of issues, are aggressive and ready to prosecute those charged with a domestic violence offense.

When accused of domestic violence, it is important that you seek the legal guidance and support of a capable and skilled Los Angeles domestic violence defense lawyer right away. Even when the alleged victim decides he/she would rather not press charges, the decision is not the alleged victim's to make - it is the prosecuting attorney's decision.

Below are a few examples of what may be considered domestic violence abuse:

• Stalking an individual, such as following someone in a threatening manner
• Intimidation
• Annoying or repeated phone calls
• Pushing, slapping, hitting, kicking, or other physical abuse or assault
• Threatening
• Social, sexual, or verbal abuse

As a highly trusted Los Angeles domestic violence firm, we understand the criminal penalties individuals may face if convicted are harsh. These types of charged may be filed as a felony or misdemeanor; how it is charged by the prosecutor will depend on the factors of each individual case. For example, an incident resulting in broken bones, cuts, or other serious injuries will likely be considered a felony charge.

If convicted, penalties include:

• Up to one year in jail (misdemeanors)
• Two to four years in state prison (felony)
• 52-week counseling program
• 40 hours of physical labor (CalTrans) or community service
• Court fines (potentially $6,000 to $10,000 for second offense)
• Possible "Stay-Away" or protective order
• Appearance at the court periodically to report on progress

Our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys are ready to provide you with a vigorous, effective defense. We understand that in many situations, false allegations are made against an individual out of anger or revenge. Exaggerated accusations may be made by those involved in a child custody dispute when in the process of separating or getting divorced. We strongly believe in protecting our clients' legal rights and fighting aggressively to prove your innocence. The violent and startling nature of crimes allegedly involving domestic violence can lead to bias in not only law enforcement, but judges, prosecutors, and even jurors. You must obtain the services of a qualified and experienced attorney immediately.

Whether you have been arrested, charged, or are under investigation it is crucial you take immediate action to protect your freedom, career, and future. At The Justice Firm, our top priority is to provide our clients with outstanding legal representation, reaching your desired outcome.

Contact our Los Angeles domestic violence defense firm now for a free consultation at 310-914-2444.

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