Impact of a Domestic Violence Conviction on Your Life

While most domestic violence cases are charged as misdemeanors, the consequences extend far beyond jail time or probation. In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction can lead to several serious effects:

• For non-citizens, a domestic violence conviction could mean deportation or denial of a citizenship application.
• Once convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence, you lose your right to own a firearm. If a restraining order applies, authorities may confiscate your guns. This restriction applies nationwide, not just in California.
• Domestic violence convictions may cost you a professional license in jobs of public trust, such as a lawyer or a financial broker. Many employers treat such cases as character issues.
• Domestic violence charges may affect your rights regarding child custody or visitation.
• A conviction may require you to complete a year-long counseling program.

Officials in Riverside often require you to surrender firearms in nearly all domestic violence matters, no matter the injuries alleged. Many local employers in areas like public service or healthcare perform background checks, so a conviction may make future employment harder to find. Riverside family courts also review protective orders carefully, especially in child custody and visitation cases.

When you are charged with domestic violence, you have the choice to fight the charges or negotiate with the prosecutor. If the defendant is a first-time offender, their attorney may be able to get a favorable deal on their behalf. 

The key is to have an attorney who knows how to talk to prosecutors. If the defendant chooses to plead guilty, they may even be able to get a deal where they do not plead guilty to domestic violence. This will preserve their right to own a firearm. Given the consequences of a conviction and possible stiff punishments for repeat offenders, you may find that the best outcome is pleading guilty to a lesser charge.

Effective Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges

Your attorney can discuss options for defending against the charges if you wish to contest them. Here are several defenses that may apply in a domestic violence case:

• The victim fabricated the story.
• The accused acted in self-defense after being attacked first.
• The conduct was too minor to count as a crime.
• Prosecutors lack evidence beyond a reasonable doubt.

Many Riverside cases turn on credible evidence presented in court. Defense teams often examine surveillance video, messages, and witness testimony closely. Our domestic violence lawyer may also challenge evidence when law enforcement mishandles investigations or procedure.

If police respond to a call and find any injury, they must make an arrest and seize firearms on-site. In those moments, contact a domestic violence attorney in Riverside right away. Early legal guidance helps you pursue the strongest available outcome.

The Riverside Domestic Violence Court Process

People arrested for domestic violence in Riverside usually begin the process with booking at a local facility like the Robert Presley Detention Center. After arrest, defendants appear at the Riverside Hall of Justice for arraignment, where the court announces formal charges. 

Judges in Riverside set bail based on case details and assess if a restraining order is needed. The process moves quickly, with pretrial conferences, motion hearings, and plea discussions often scheduled back-to-back. Local courts expect defendants to follow strict deadlines and meet all court requirements. 

Our legal team is familiar with Riverside court procedures and will help you stay on track and avoid costly mistakes.

Learn More About Domestic Violence Defense in California

If you or someone you care about is facing a domestic violence charge, learning how California law works can make a real difference in understanding your next steps. Our blog offers clear, practical insights into how these cases are handled in Riverside and across the state.

Our articles on domestic violence:

• Violating a Restraining Order: Charges in California. Learn what happens when a restraining order is violated, including possible penalties and how courts interpret “willful contact.”
• Can a Domestic Violence Case Be Expunged? Find out when and how a domestic violence conviction can be cleared from your record under California law.
• Domestic Violence Arrests in Riverside. Understand what to expect after an arrest, from initial booking to potential court appearances in Riverside County.

Domestic Violence Trends & Statistics in California

California has around 40 million residents. Domestic violence affects adults, children, and seniors. In 2019, Californians made approximately 161,123 calls related to domestic violence incidents.

Eight years ago, California residents made 151,325 domestic violence-related calls. Four years later, California residents made approximately 169,362 domestic violence-related calls. Many of these calls involved weapons, but that number dropped from 76,707 in 2018 to 75,128 in 2019.

Firearms have often played a role in domestic violence incidents in California. Between 2010 and 2019, reported cases involving firearms grew from 867 to 1,388.

DeLimon Law defends people against domestic violence charges. Defendants may face misdemeanor or felony allegations. If you need representation on a domestic violence case, contact our team at 951-777-9104.

Domestic Violence as a Felony or Misdemeanor

Prosecutors may file domestic violence charges as felonies or misdemeanors. Prosecutors have the discretion to charge defendants with either felonies or misdemeanors based on the facts and evidence of each case.

The past criminal record of a defendant will influence the prosecutor’s decision to either file the charges as a felony or a misdemeanor. If you are convicted of a felony domestic violence charge, you may face significant jail time. You may also be ordered to pay restitution and fines. Also, you will likely be ordered to attend counseling classes.

In specific cases, the court may impose a restraining order which will forbid you from having any contact with the alleged victim. These consequences are severe, and if you are facing domestic violence charges, it is imperative that you retain a Riverside domestic violence attorney as soon as possible.

Listed below are possible domestic violence charges you may face in the State of California.

653M(A) PC. Making an Annoying Telephone Call

• Making an annoying telephone call is a misdemeanor and carries a penalty of up to six months in jail. Prosecutors use evidence of threatening or harassing phone or electronic messages to support charges.
• If you face this charge after a phone argument, you need a criminal defense attorney who can present your perspective in court.

273.5(A) PC. Corporal Injury to Spouse

• Corporal injury to a spouse is a felony offense carrying two, three, or four years in state prison. A misdemeanor conviction means up to one year in county jail. The prosecutor must show that you willfully caused a traumatic injury to a spouse, cohabitant, co-parent, or someone with whom you have a dating history.

Domestic Violence FAQ

How does the legal process work for domestic violence charges?

Most cases begin with an arrest and proceed to an arraignment where the court formally announces charges. During pre-trial, the attorneys gather evidence and negotiate. If no agreement is reached, the case may go to trial. Your attorney walks you through all of these steps.

What impact does a domestic violence conviction have on my life?

Convictions lead to criminal records that affect future job prospects, housing opportunities, and child custody. A conviction may also mean forfeiting certain rights, such as firearm ownership. Expungement can sometimes limit these effects.

Can domestic violence charges be dropped?

Victims can request dismissal, but prosecutors decide whether to proceed. If the evidence is strong, charges often continue. Legal counsel can help negotiate with the prosecutor when appropriate.

Contact a Riverside Domestic Violence Attorney

Attorney Daniel DeLimon is an experienced criminal defense attorney who has helped clients charged with domestic violence. He counsels his clients in a judgment-free environment and is focused solely on protecting his clients’ legal rights. If you have been charged with domestic violence, call DeLimon Law at (951) 777-9104 as soon as possible to get an attorney working on your case or contact us online for more information. There is too much at stake to not have an aggressive legal defense at your disposal.

Every domestic violence case has its challenges and you need determined legal representation. Call Daniel DeLimon today for a free consultation at (951) 777-9104.

California Domestic Violence FAQ

What constitutes domestic violence in California?

Domestic violence in California includes physical harm, threats of harm, stalking, harassment, and other abusive behaviors between people in an intimate relationship, such as spouses, cohabitants, or dating partners.

How can a domestic violence attorney in Riverside help me?

A domestic violence attorney can provide advice, represent you in court, assist with restraining orders, and help you navigate the legal system to protect your rights and pursue the best possible result for your case.

What should I do if I am falsely accused of domestic violence?

If you are falsely accused of domestic violence, consult an experienced attorney right away. Your attorney helps collect evidence, develop your defense, and protect your rights throughout the legal process.

Can domestic violence charges be dropped?

Sometimes, charges get dropped if the victim withdraws their complaint or the evidence proves insufficient. Ultimately, prosecutors decide whether to dismiss or reduce charges. A lawyer may be able to negotiate on your behalf in these situations.

How does a domestic violence conviction affect child custody?

A conviction for domestic violence can limit your custody rights. California courts focus on child safety, so a recent conviction may lead to supervised visits or a change in custody arrangements. Talk to an attorney about your parental rights in these cases.

What is the difference between a temporary and a permanent restraining order?

A temporary restraining order (TRO) offers immediate protection until a court hearing is held. A permanent restraining order can last as long as five years if the court finds sufficient evidence. The court tailors conditions based on the facts in each situation.

How long does a domestic violence case take to resolve?

Case length depends on complexity, court schedules, and whether the matter goes to trial. A domestic violence attorney in Riverside can estimate timing based on your specific circumstances.

Can a domestic violence conviction be expunged from my record?

In some circumstances, you can expunge a domestic violence conviction depending on your offense and history. Our domestic violence defense attorney can review your eligibility and provide guidance through the expungement process.