If you have been arrested or accused of domestic violence in Los Angeles, California, Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers can help when you call (619) 357-4977. Domestic violence claims can lead to criminal charges, restraining orders, and limits on contact with family members. These issues can begin soon after an arrest, so it is important to take the case seriously from the start.
Our firm has more than a decade of criminal defense experience. We represent people facing domestic violence claims and other serious criminal charges in California. Contact the firm today to schedule a free consultation with a Los Angeles domestic violence lawyer.
Why Choose Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers to Help if I’ve Been Accused of Domestic Violence in Los Angeles?
Domestic violence cases can involve many types of evidence. This may include text messages, photos, witness statements, medical records, and different accounts of what happened. Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers will look closely at the claims and evidence in your case. We can then build a defense based on the facts.
When you work with our firm in Los Angeles, CA, you can expect:
- More than 15 years of criminal defense experience
- Personalized representation based on the facts of your case
- Direct communication with an attorney
- Thorough investigation of the allegations and available evidence
- Experience handling serious criminal charges in California
- Aggressive advocacy at each stage of the criminal process
Our firm can review the case against you and look for possible defenses. We can also explain what may happen next. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney.
Overview of Domestic Violence in California
California does not have one specific crime called “domestic violence.” Instead, domestic violence can involve criminal allegations against a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, dating partner, former dating partner, co-parent, or another person who falls within a relationship covered by California law.
Common charges include corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant under California Penal Code § 273.5 and domestic battery under Penal Code § 243(e)(1). A domestic violence case may also involve assault, criminal threats, stalking, or other charges.
What Are the Penalties for Domestic Violence in Los Angeles, California?
The penalties for a domestic violence conviction depend on the charge, the defendant’s criminal history, any injuries involved, and other facts of the case. Depending on the offense, a person may face misdemeanor or felony charges.
Potential consequences include:
- Jail or state prison
- Fines
- Probation
- Court-ordered domestic violence programs in applicable cases
- Protective or restraining orders
- Restitution
- Firearm restrictions
Prior domestic violence convictions and other aggravating circumstances can also affect the penalties imposed. A conviction may also have collateral consequences beyond the criminal sentence, including effects on firearm possession and immigration status in some cases.
The specific penalties you face will depend on the charge and circumstances of your case.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Accused of Domestic Violence?
The defenses available in a domestic violence case depend on the allegations and evidence. A criminal defense attorney may review police reports, witness statements, photos, medical records, text messages, and other evidence.
Potential defenses may include:
- Self-defense or defense of another person
- False accusations
- Lack of sufficient evidence
- Accidental injury
- Mistaken identity
- Evidence that contradicts the alleged victim’s account
The prosecution must prove every element of the charged offense beyond a reasonable doubt. The defense that applies will depend on what happened, the evidence available, and whether the prosecution can establish the allegations against you.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help if You’ve Been Accused of Domestic Violence
Domestic violence cases can involve protective orders, witness statements, medical records, photographs, electronic communications, and other evidence. Decisions made early in the case can also affect how the proceedings develop. Having legal representation from the beginning can help you respond appropriately at each stage of the criminal process.
A Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer can help by:
- Reviewing the allegations and criminal charges against you
- Investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident
- Examining police reports, witness statements, and other evidence
- Identifying evidence that may support your defense
- Challenging unlawfully obtained or unreliable evidence
- Addressing protective orders and restrictions on contact
- Negotiating with prosecutors when appropriate
- Representing you at hearings and other court proceedings
- Preparing your case for trial when necessary
Getting an attorney involved early can provide more time to investigate the allegations, preserve relevant evidence, and prepare for upcoming court proceedings.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Los Angeles Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
If you have been accused of domestic violence in Los Angeles, California, the allegations can lead to criminal penalties, protective orders, and other consequences. Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers can examine the evidence, identify potential defenses, and represent you throughout the criminal process.
With more than 15 years of criminal defense experience, our firm is prepared to handle serious domestic violence allegations. Contact the firm today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a Los Angeles domestic violence defense attorney.
