Being charged with domestic violence can leave anyone feeling uncertain about how the charges will affect their freedom, reputation, and future. The allegations may involve misunderstandings, false claims, or complex circumstances. In any situation, it is critical to have a Hawaiian Gardens domestic violence lawyer who can compellingly present your defense. Their work can greatly change the dynamics of the case in your favor.
At Gibbons & Gibbons, our domestic violence lawyer can provide the skilled defense you need to protect your rights, navigate the legal process, and work toward a favorable outcome in your case.
Gibbons & Gibbons offers unmatched dedication, decades of criminal defense experience, and a family-centered approach to representation. Our firm is committed to protecting your rights, providing personalized attention, and fighting tirelessly to achieve the optimal outcome.
While other firms practice several areas of law, we focus on criminal law. We understand the state’s criminal laws and how to effectively defend clients from a wide range of criminal charges, including domestic violence.
Hawaiian Gardens, California, takes a no-tolerance approach to domestic violence. A conviction for any domestic violence-related crime can lead to jail or prison time, even for first-time offenders. Under California law, domestic battery is addressed by Penal Code § 243(e)(1), which applies to the use of force or violence against an intimate partner.
Under this law, victims could include spouses, cohabitants, dating partners, or individuals with whom the accused shares a child. Domestic battery does not require visible injuries, and it is typically charged as a misdemeanor, punishable by fines and time in jail.
For more severe cases that result in serious bodily harm, Penal Code § 273.5 may apply. This statute involves acts of intentional physical force that lead to serious wounds. Depending on the circumstances of the case, charges may be classified as a misdemeanor or felony, which could result in confinement to jail or prison and steep fines.
California also defines domestic violence in Penal Code § 13700, encompassing threats, emotional abuse, and financial manipulation. If charged, securing experienced legal representation is essential to protect your rights and navigate the complex legal process.
If you are facing criminal charges, the justice system may seem imposing. It is important to remember that all defendants have fundamental rights and the presumption of innocence unless they are found guilty or plead guilty. The burden is on the prosecution to uncover evidence that proves your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Anything less than that can prove favorable to your defense.
Domestic violence cases often involve high emotions, conflicting accounts, and serious consequences, making it essential to have skilled legal representation to protect your future. They can use inconsistencies, procedural errors, or lack of sufficient proof to challenge the case against you.
In domestic violence cases, allegations can sometimes stem from misunderstandings, false claims, or ulterior motives, such as custody disputes or relationship conflicts. A knowledgeable lawyer can investigate these factors, gather evidence to support your version of events and undermine the prosecution’s arguments.
Your attorney can also advocate for your rights throughout the process, ensuring fair treatment under the law. This includes contesting any improper actions by law enforcement, such as unlawful arrests or violations of your constitutional rights. Additionally, they can negotiate with prosecutors to seek reduced charges, alternative sentencing options, or even a case dismissal when appropriate.
You can get domestic violence charges dismissed by hiring a criminal defense attorney. It is critical to find one who understands the state’s domestic violence laws and how to successfully fight the charges in court. An experienced attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as insufficient evidence, procedural errors, or false allegations, and use them to your advantage.
The average sentence for domestic violence depends on the specific crime you are charged with and the specifics of your case. Domestic violence can be charged through multiple criminal laws that pertain to threats or acts of violence committed against family members or romantic partners. These crimes range from misdemeanors to felonies, and sentences can include anything from probation to jail or even prison time.
In a domestic violence case in California, the defendant is often arrested and processed in jail. Shortly afterward, they are notified of the charges they are facing and possibly released on bail. The criminal court process can last several months or even well over a year. The courts may place restrictions on the defendant until the case is resolved via a plea bargain agreement, dropped charges, or a trial.
In California, the length of time a domestic violence charge remains on your record depends on the outcome of the case and the severity of the charge. If you are convicted, domestic violence offenses can stay on your criminal record indefinitely unless they are expunged. Misdemeanor convictions may be eligible for expungement after completing probation and meeting specific requirements, but felony convictions are generally more difficult to remove.
California has introduced new laws to strengthen protections for domestic violence victims and survivors. These laws increase access to restraining orders, establish a financial restitution fund, and extend the time victims have to report abuse. Additional measures address financial abuse, prevent abusers from tracking victims, and enhance investigations into domestic violence-related deaths.
With legal representation from Gibbons & Gibbons, you can fight and win your case. Our attorneys have experience scrutinizing the evidence used by prosecutors. If your rights were violated at any point, we can use that to demand your charges be dropped.
Although domestic violence crimes should be taken very seriously, there are times when the charges result from a misunderstanding or effort by a former romantic partner to malign someone’s reputation. We can find the truth so you can begin restoring your life and reputation. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.