Accused of domestic violence in Solana Beach, California? You still have rights, and you still have a future worth protecting. Having an experienced Solana Beach domestic violence lawyer can help you get the best possible outcome. Contact the Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers at (619) 357-4977 to schedule a free consultation to learn more.
We understand what you’re up against. Allegations coming from someone you care about can feel personal. We have 14+ years of criminal defense experience, and we know how to push back against accusations that may be exaggerated, distorted, or completely false.
You don’t have to face this situation alone. Call us today to set up a free consultation and get the guidance you need.
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Why Choose Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers to Help With a Domestic Violence Charge in Solana Beach, CA?
When you are arrested for domestic violence, the system starts moving immediately. Restraining orders can be issued within hours. You need a defense firm that can act just as quickly to protect your rights.
At Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers, we bring over 14 years of focused criminal defense experience to domestic violence cases. Let us fight back against the allegations threatening your life.
Clients throughout San Diego County trust our firm because:
- We take the time to understand the relationship dynamics, history, and any inconsistencies the prosecution is relying on.
- We have extensive experience with domestic violence charges. We know the patterns, the evidence prosecutors rely on, and how these cases play out in courtrooms across the country.
- We aggressively challenge restraining orders.
- We scrutinize every piece of evidence.
- We are trial-ready when justice demands it.
If prosecutors refuse to be fair, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial and present a powerful defense. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation with a Solana Beach criminal defense lawyer who will fight to protect you at every stage of the process.
What Is Considered Domestic Violence in California?
California takes domestic violence seriously, and the definition covers a wide range of conduct. Under the law, domestic violence refers to the use of force, threats, or harmful touching against someone with whom you share a close, intimate, or domestic relationship.
This includes:
- Current or former spouses
- Dating partners or ex-partners
- Someone you live with or have previously lived with
- Fiancés or former fiancés
- Co-parents of a shared child
- Certain family members, depending on the situation
Domestic violence charges usually fall under one of several California Penal Code sections. The two most common are domestic battery and corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant, but prosecutors may pursue additional charges depending on the facts.
Domestic Battery
Domestic battery occurs when you allegedly use force or harmful or offensive touching against an intimate partner. Importantly, the law does not require an actual physical injury. Even minor contact, such as a shove, a grab, or an argument that escalates physically, can lead to an arrest.
Domestic battery is generally charged as a misdemeanor, but the consequences can still be severe.
Corporal Injury to a Spouse or Cohabitant – Penal Code § 273.5
If the alleged victim has a visible injury, the charge may be elevated to corporal injury to a spouse, sometimes called “domestic violence with injury.”
This offense is a wobbler, meaning prosecutors may charge it as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on:
- The severity of the injury
- The alleged circumstances of the incident
- Your criminal history
- Statements given at the scene
- Evidence collected by police
A felony conviction can carry years in state prison, aggressive probation terms, and long-lasting collateral consequences.
What Are the Penalties for Domestic Violence in Solana Beach, CA?
Domestic violence charges in California, even misdemeanor charges, come with harsh penalties that can disrupt nearly every part of your life.
You may be punished with:
- Domestic Battery—Up to 1 year in county jail, fines up to $2,000, mandatory enrollment in a 52-week batterer’s intervention program. Probation, community service, and possible protective orders are also on the table.
- Corporal Injury to a Spouse—Misdemeanor comes with up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $6,000. Felonies can result in 2–4 years in state prison, with an additional 3–5 years for serious bodily injury.
These penalties are only the beginning. The long-term effects of a domestic violence conviction can also be life-changing.
Collateral Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
Even after jail time or fines are resolved, a domestic violence conviction can follow you for years. California imposes numerous collateral consequences that can dramatically restrict your life.
Serious long-term effects may include:
- Loss of gun rights, including an automatic, lifetime federal firearm ban.
- Immigration consequences for non-U.S. citizens, including lawful permanent residents, visa holders, or undocumented individuals. Domestic violence convictions can lead to removal proceedings, visa denial, or deportation.
- Child custody and visitation issues. A conviction or even the existence of a restraining order can impact your visitation rights and custody arrangements.
- Certain careers involving caregiving, education, public safety, or government work may become completely inaccessible.
These severe and lasting consequences illustrate why it is essential to work with a defense attorney who can aggressively challenge the charges before they define your future.
Possible Defenses to Domestic Violence Charges
Every domestic violence case is unique. At Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers, we evaluate all evidence with a critical eye, and we craft a defense strategy based on the exact circumstances, not assumptions or stereotypes.
Some of the most common and effective defenses include:
Self-Defense
You may have used reasonable force to protect yourself, a child, or another individual from imminent harm. Many domestic disputes involve mutual conflict, and police often overlook the fact that you were the one defending yourself.
False or Exaggerated Accusations
Domestic violence allegations sometimes arise from false accusations motivated by:
- Jealousy
- Anger
- Breakups
- Divorce or custody disputes
- Revenge
- Miscommunication
- Third-party influence
We work to identify inconsistencies, ulterior motives, and evidence that contradicts the accusations.
Accidental Injury
Not every injury is intentional. Falls, misunderstandings, or accidental contact can be misinterpreted as violence, especially in emotionally charged situations.
Lack of Evidence
Prosecutors must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. Weak or incomplete evidence can undermine the prosecution’s case.
Constitutional Violations
Did police violate your rights, such as performing an unlawful search, failing to Mirandize you, or coercing a statement? Any evidence obtained as a result may be suppressed.
Inconsistencies in the Alleged Victim’s Story
Statements taken at the scene, in later interviews, via text messages, or in restraining order petitions often contradict each other. These inconsistencies can help dismantle the prosecution’s narrative.
Our team will explain every available defense option and pursue the strategy with the strongest chance of success.
Understanding Restraining Orders in Solana Beach Domestic Violence Cases
Domestic violence cases often involve multiple protective orders.
Types of orders include:
- Emergency Protective Order (EPO), issued by police immediately after an incident, usually lasting 5–7 days.
- Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), often granted before you even get a chance to respond. These orders can remove you from your home, limit contact with your children, and restrict your ability to travel.
- Criminal Protective Order (CPO), issued during criminal proceedings and may stay in effect until the case is resolved, or longer.
Violating any of these orders can lead to additional criminal charges, even if the alleged victim contacts you. That’s why fast legal intervention is critical to limit restraining orders whenever possible.
How Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers Can Help Build Your Domestic Violence Defense
With over a decade of criminal law experience, we know what it takes to protect clients facing emotionally charged accusations. Our firm uses a thorough, evidence-driven approach to ensure no detail is overlooked.
Our defense process may include:
- Reviewing body camera footage for inconsistencies or misinterpretations
- Analyzing 911 recordings for tone, timeline, or contradictory statements
- Gathering witness statements, including neighbors who heard or saw what happened
- Examining digital evidence, such as texts, emails, or social media messages
- Investigating prior incidents, if any, for context or evidence of mutual conflict
- Obtaining medical records to evaluate the credibility of injury claims
- Consulting use-of-force or forensic experts when injuries are disputed
- Challenging restraining orders during civil and criminal hearings
- Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges when weaknesses exist
- Preparing for trial if prosecutors refuse to drop unsupported allegations
We approach every domestic violence case as if it may go to trial, even if a negotiated outcome is possible. Thorough preparation leads to better results in every stage of the process.
Contact a Solana Beach Domestic Violence Attorney Today for Help
Domestic violence allegations can reshape your life, but you don’t have to face the system without an ally. At Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers, we know how emotionally charged these cases are. With 14+ years of criminal defense experience, we fight to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.
We will work tirelessly for the best possible outcome, whether that means reduced charges, dismissed charges, or a full acquittal. Call us today to schedule your free consultation with a Solana Beach domestic violence attorney who is ready to defend you.