Blair Criminal Defense Lawyers | December 5, 2025 | Domestic Violence
Domestic violence cases are prosecuted very seriously in San Diego and throughout California. While merely being charged can lead to serious consequences, the impact of a conviction could considerably jeopardize your freedom for the foreseeable future.
As a result, it is critically important to understand what the law allows and how these charges can affect your future. This blog will provide an overview of the potential penalties and long-term effects that can arise when someone is accused or convicted of domestic violence in San Diego, California.
California Domestic Violence Laws
Domestic violence is not a single charge. Instead, it includes several offenses in the California Penal Code that involve harm against someone you share an intimate or household relationship with.
Common charges include:
- Domestic battery
- Corporal injury to a spouse
- Criminal threats
- Stalking
- Violating a protective order
Prosecutors may pursue charges in these cases regardless of whether the alleged victim wants to move forward.
What Are the Possible Criminal Penalties for Domestic Violence in San Diego?
The penalties a defendant may face will ultimately depend on the charge(s) in question, whether there are any prior offenses, and other factors. Many domestic violence offenses in California are considered “wobblers,” meaning they can be filed as either misdemeanors or felonies.
Potential consequences include:
- Jail time
- Probation
- Mandatory counseling
- Fines and court fees
- Protective orders
- Community service
For felony domestic violence convictions, sentences can include multiple years in state prison, especially if the incident caused physical injury.
Civil Consequences and Restraining Orders
In many cases, the alleged victim may also request a restraining order in civil court in addition to a protective order on the criminal side of the law. These orders can:
- Require you to stay away from the protected person
- Remove you from your home
- Affect your ability to see your children
- Prevent you from owning or possessing firearms
Violating a restraining order is a separate criminal offense and can lead to additional penalties as well.
Collateral Consequences
Domestic violence convictions can trigger a wide range of collateral consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom. These penalties often affect major aspects of a person’s life, including immigration status, professional opportunities, housing, and constitutional rights.
Collateral consequences you may face include:
- Immigration complications: Even a single conviction can jeopardize immigration status, potentially leading to visa issues, denial of naturalization, or removal proceedings.
- Professional licensing problems: Many licensing boards view domestic violence convictions as a major red flag. A conviction could delay, suspend, or completely bar professional licensure.
- Employment and housing barriers: Background checks may show a conviction, making it more challenging to secure steady employment or rental housing.
- Firearm restrictions: California imposes strict gun laws. A domestic violence conviction can lead to a ten-year firearm ban—or even a lifetime prohibition—depending on the circumstances.
These consequences can persist long after the criminal case is resolved, continuing to affect personal and professional stability.
What I You Do if I’ve Been Accused of Domestic Violence?
If you’ve been accused of domestic violence in San Diego, it is critical to protect yourself from the start. Consider the following steps:
- Do not contact the alleged victim
- Do not speak to the police prosecutor without a lawyer present
- Preserve any evidence that may support your version of events
- Follow all court orders carefully, including temporary restraining orders
- Consult with an experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney as soon as possible
Early legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, whether or not you were falsely accused, so do not hesitate to contact a lawyer right away for help.
Contact a San Diego Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer for Help
Domestic violence accusations carry serious risks, from jail time to long-term damage to your reputation. Knowing what the potential consequences are is an important first step toward protecting your rights.
If you are facing domestic violence charges in San Diego, California, a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer can help you secure as favorable an outcome as the law allows, including having your charges dismissed in some cases.
For more information, don’t hesitate to contact the San Diego criminal defense attorneys at Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers for a free consultation. Give us a call at (619) 357-4977, or visit our convenient location:
Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers San Diego
225 Broadway Suite 1740
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 357-4977
24/7
