Riverside Domestic Violence Attorney

While domestic violence happens in an unfortunate amount of time, the people charged with the offense have legal rights. While people may be quick to try to convict just based on the nature of the crime alone, there are often two sides to every story. At the same time, false domestic abuse allegations are also too common as some people try to use them to otherwise gain an advantage. Those accused of domestic violence have every right to experienced and aggressive legal counsel.

The Definition of Domestic Violence Is Broad

Domestic violence charges are not just limited to current and former spouses. Under California law, the definition is very broad. It could include someone with who you were in a relationship or even everyone who you were once dating. Any type of violence related to any relationship past or present can be charged.

When one commits battery as part of a domestic violence charge, the punishment can be up to one year in prison. In California, battery is defined as “intentional and unlawful physical contact on another person.” When there is no injury, domestic violence can be charged as a felony or misdemeanor.

When the alleged victim suffers an injury from the violence, the charges are upgraded to a felony. This can mean a sentence of up to four years in state prison. If one is convicted of felony domestic violence within seven years of another domestic violence conviction, it will result in a sentence of at least two years.

The Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction

While most domestic violence cases are charged as misdemeanors, the effects of the case are very real. Beyond potential jail time or probation, there are numerous collateral consequences of a domestic violence conviction:

• For non-citizens, a domestic violence conviction could mean deportation or denial of a citizenship application.
• Once you are convicted of a misdemeanor for domestic violence, you lose the right to own a firearm. You may even have your gun taken away when you are subject to a restraining order. This will not just affect you in California but will take away your gun rights across the country.
• Domestic violence conviction could cost you a professional license if you are in a position of public trust, such as a lawyer or a stockbroker because employers look at it as a matter of character.
• Domestic violence charges could harm your custodial rights.
• A conviction could mean a requirement to attend a mandatory year-long counseling program.

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 defender, 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.

Defenses Against a Domestic Violence Charge

Your attorney will advise you that you can fight the charges against you if you choose. Here are some possible defenses that you can use in your case:

• The victim fabricated the story.
• The defendant was acting in self-defense, and they were actually attacked first.
• The conduct was too minor to be considered a criminal offense.
• Prosecutors cannot prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.

If the police show up to investigate a call and there is even a slight injury, they are required to make an arrest and confiscate the guns in the home. This is when you need to contact a Riverside domestic violence attorney. The sooner you bring an attorney into your case, the quicker you can start working towards achieving the best possible outcomes.

Domestic violence cases in california

The U.S. State of California has approximately 40 million residents. Domestic violence affects children, adults, and elders. California residents made approximately 161,123 domestic violence-related calls in 2019.

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 domestic violence-related calls involve weapons, but this number decreased from 76,707 in 2018 to 75,128 in 2019.

Firearms are also often used during domestic violence disputes in California. Between 2010 and 2019, firearm involvement increased from 867 reported cases to 1,388 reported cases.

DeLimon Law protects defendants who are facing domestic violence charges. Accused individuals may be charged with misdemeanors or felonies. If you need legal representation because you are facing domestic violence charges, contact our team today 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, CA 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 is punishable by six months in jail. The prosecutor will attempt to prove that you made a telephone call, or used other electronic means, and used verbal threats to injure another person or their property.
• It is important for you to retain legal representation if you are facing this charge. You may have spoken to someone on the phone and engaged in an argument. If you are then accused of making an annoying telephone call, you will need a criminal defense attorney to help you present your side of the case.

273.5(A) PC. CORPORAL INJURY TO SPOUSE

• Corporal Injury to a spouse is a felony punishable by two, three, or four years in state prison. If the prosecutor charges a misdemeanor, the offense is punishable by up to one year in county jail. To be found guilty of this offense, the prosecutor must prove that you willfully inflicted a traumatic injury on another person who is either the spouse, living partner, parent of your child, or a former partner with whom you previously lived.

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 case has its challenges and you need the best legal representation. If you are facing criminal charges call Daniel DeLimon today for a free consultation at (951) 382-5559.

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 individuals in an intimate relationship, such as spouses, cohabitants, or dating partners.

How can a domestic violence attorney help me?

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

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

If you are falsely accused of domestic violence, it is crucial to contact a skilled attorney immediately. Your attorney can help gather evidence, build a defense, and represent you in court to protect your rights and reputation.

Can domestic violence charges be dropped?

In some cases, domestic violence charges can be dropped if the victim recants their statement or if there is insufficient evidence. However, the decision to drop charges ultimately lies with the prosecutor. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf and work towards having the charges reduced or dismissed.

How does a domestic violence conviction affect child custody?

A domestic violence conviction can significantly impact child custody arrangements. Courts prioritize the safety and well-being of children, and a history of domestic violence can lead to supervised visitation or loss of custody. An attorney can help you understand your rights and work to protect your relationship with your children.

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

A temporary restraining order (TRO) is a short-term protective order granted to provide immediate protection until a court hearing can be held. A permanent restraining order, if granted, can last up to five years and provides long-term protection based on the evidence presented at the hearing.

How long does a domestic violence case take to resolve?

The duration of a California domestic violence case varies depending on the complexity of the case, court schedules, and whether the case goes to trial. A Riverside DV attorney can provide a more accurate timeline based on the specifics of your situation.

Can a domestic violence conviction be expunged from my record?

In some cases, a domestic violence conviction can be expunged from your record, depending on the nature of the offense and your criminal history. An attorney can help you determine if you are eligible for expungement and assist with the process.