Temecula Domestic Violence Lawyer

Domestic violence is a label that covers various crimes that are committed against family or household members, intimate partners, or dating partners. Because of the element of violence or the threat of violence, courts take these cases very seriously. You can be charged with a domestic violence crime without ever having caused any type of injury or pain to the alleged victim. You can also suffer harsh consequences before your case has even been resolved if the alleged victim obtains a restraining order against you.

Unfortunately, many domestic violence cases are based on false, exaggerated, or misleading statements by alleged victims. Whether this is the case or not, those accused of domestic violence have a right to defend themselves with experienced and aggressive legal representation. 

At DeLimon Law, you can turn to a criminal defense lawyer you can trust to fight to preserve your freedom and future. As a former prosecutor, Attorney Daniel DeLimon understands what you are up against and how to challenge charges that could result in serious consequences.

Accused of domestic violence in Temecula? Get legal guidance before court or police mistakes affect your future. Your first consultation is free.

Why Clients Trust DeLimon Law in Temecula Domestic Violence Cases

When facing a domestic violence charge, you need a defense lawyer with courtroom experience and a clear understanding of how Riverside County prosecutes these cases. Lead attorney Daniel DeLimon has over 15 years of experience on both sides of the courtroom, including his time as a prosecutor handling complex violent crime and domestic violence trials. His insight into how the District Attorney’s Office prepares cases allows him to anticipate challenges and respond with precision at every stage.

Attorney DeLimon's key strengths include:

• Over 15 years of criminal trial experience, including more than 70 jury trials
• Former Riverside County prosecutor, now defending clients across Southern California
• Four-time Attorney of the Year in Riverside County and member of the National Top 100 Trial Lawyers
• Known for thorough preparation and strategic advocacy in high-stakes cases
• Provides consistent communication and clear guidance throughout the legal process

Strategies We May Use in Your Domestic Violence Case

No two domestic violence cases are alike. At DeLimon Law, we analyze every detail to determine which legal defenses best apply under California law and Riverside County procedures. Depending on the facts, potential strategies may include:

• Challenging false or exaggerated accusations, especially when evidence shows inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s statements.
• Arguing self-defense or defense of others under California Penal Code § 692 when your actions were reasonable in response to a perceived threat.
• Demonstrating accidental or unintended contact, which may negate the “willful” element required under Penal Code § 243(e)(1) for domestic battery.
• Questioning police procedure or unlawful searches, including violations of your Fourth Amendment rights during arrest or investigation.
• Identifying insufficient or unreliable evidence, such as unclear injuries, lack of witnesses, or conflicting reports.
• Exposing procedural or evidentiary errors that could undermine the prosecution’s ability to meet its burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

Our approach is built on extensive trial experience and familiarity with how domestic violence cases move through the Southwest Justice Center. From the first hearing to potential trial, we pursue every angle that could strengthen your defense and safeguard your future.

Let DeLimon Law Fight for You

A domestic violence conviction brings serious, lasting consequences that can change your life. Put a seasoned legal advocate in your corner who will protect your reputation, freedom, and future. Reach out today for clear guidance and dedicated representation in this critical time.

Take the first step toward defending yourself. Call (951) 777-9104 now for a free case review with a Temecula domestic violence lawyer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a domestic violence case usually take?

The timeline depends on several factors, including the complexity of the charges and the court’s schedule at the Southwest Justice Center. Most cases take a few weeks to several months from arrest to resolution, but more complex cases can last longer.

Will I have to appear in court for each hearing?

Defendants usually must attend all scheduled court hearings unless the judge grants an exception. Missing a required appearance may lead to a bench warrant and additional complications with your case.

Can a domestic violence restraining order affect where I live?

Yes. Judges may require you to move out of your home or keep a certain distance from specific people or places. These conditions stay in place for as long as the restraining order remains active.

What People Are Involved in California Domestic Violence Crimes? 

These are crimes involving:

• Spouses and ex-spouses
• Individuals living together or who have formerly lived together
• Individuals who are the parents of a child, regardless of marital status
• Current and former intimate or dating partners and fiancés

In some domestic violence cases, alleged victims can include parents, children, and those related by blood or marriage. Common domestic violence crimes include domestic battery and corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant. 

California law applies broadly to relationships, including step-relatives or those with shared custody arrangements. In Temecula, Riverside County District Attorney’s Office prosecutors review each case to determine the appropriate charges, if any. The relationship between those involved can determine how the court files charges and what restraining order terms may apply.

What Is the Difference Between Domestic Battery & Corporal Injury to a Spouse or Cohabitant?

Domestic battery involves willfully touching the alleged victim in a harmful or offensive way. The state can file charges even if the contact did not cause pain or injury. It is considered a misdemeanor that carries penalties of up to a year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000.

Corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant is a more serious charge because it involves actual physical injury. Prosecutors can file it as a misdemeanor or felony. Felony charges carry potential penalties of two, three, or four years in prison with fines up to $6,000. Penalties increase if you inflict “great bodily harm” on the alleged victim. 

Additional penalties in domestic violence cases can include court-ordered participation in a batterer’s program, loss of gun rights, and paying restitution to the victim for any related expenses.

Along with jail time and fines, you may face mandatory counseling, court-ordered community service, and temporary or permanent loss of child custody rights. Some cases handled in Temecula bring further consequences, such as restrictions on returning home or effects on immigration status. Working with an attorney familiar with these considerations can make a difference during negotiations or trial.

What Is a Domestic Violence Restraining Order?

These are orders issued by the court to protect alleged victims from further violence or threat of violence. They can be issued on an emergency basis or a more permanent basis after a court hearing is held, in which both sides can present their evidence. Permanent restraining orders can be put into effect for up to five years by judges. If the judge does not provide a termination date, they generally stay in effect for three years.

These orders establish the following rules and restrictions for the person named as the aggressor:

• Bar them from any type of abuse, threat, stalking, or property destruction of the alleged victim
• Bar them from going within a certain distance of the alleged victim
• Bar them from making any type of contact with the alleged victim
• Force them to vacate a home shared with the alleged victim
• Order them to pay child support and/or spousal support to the alleged victim
• Temporarily remove child custody and visitation rights
• Order them to pay for the alleged victim’s attorney fees
• Make any other conditions or restrictions the court deems necessary

What Happens After an Arrest for Domestic Violence in Temecula?

After police arrest you for domestic violence in Temecula, you will be taken to either the Southwest Detention Center or a local holding facility. Officers quickly notify the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, which reviews your case and decides whether to file formal charges. 

If the office moves forward, they file the complaint, and you will be required to attend an arraignment at the Southwest Justice Center. At arraignment, the court states the charges and requests your plea. The judge may set bail and can issue or continue a restraining order at this initial hearing. 

Attorney DeLimon helps you stay informed, avoid procedural mistakes, and make sound decisions from the start. Throughout the process, we focus on clear communication and practical support to help you navigate each stage with confidence and awareness.

Legal Resources on Domestic Violence Matters

When you’re facing domestic violence allegations in Temecula, it’s vital to understand how the law works and what your options may be. Our blog offers articles that address key legal issues defendants frequently encounter:

• Can a Domestic Violence Case Be Expunged? — Learn when a domestic violence matter may be eligible for expungement under California law and how it could affect your future.
• Violating a Restraining Order: Charges in California — Understand the risks of restraining order violations in California and the criminal consequences that can follow.

Schedule a free case evaluation with our Temecula domestic violence attorney. Connect via our online contact form or by calling us at (951) 777-9104. Hablamos español.