The legal system in California uses California Penal Code Section 273.5(a): Corporal Injury to a Spouse to prosecute acts of physical violence against an intimate partner. PC 273.5(a) is one of the many different charges used to deal with cases of domestic violence in California.
Individuals charged with corporal injury to a spouse may find themselves facing extreme legal penalties. Both high fines and jail time are common sentences for PC 273.5(a) convictions.
Understanding the technical definition of corporal injury to a spouse can be difficult without professional assistance. The Simmrin Law Group can offer you information about PC 273.5(a), facts about possible penalties for this charge, and defenses against accusations of corporal injury to a spouse.
An Explanation of PC 273.5(a)
PC 273.5(a) forbids individuals from causing a physical injury to an intimate partner. Under the law in Los Angeles, intimate partners can include an individual’s:
- Current or Previous Spouse
- Current or Previous Domestic Partner
- Current or Previous Cohabitant
- Current or Previous Fiancé
- Current or Previous Series Girlfriend or Boyfriend
The parent of an individual’s child will also be considered an intimate partner under PC 273.5(a). Any act that causes physical harm can be viewed as a corporal injury in the state of California.
Domestic Violence Charges and PC 273.5(a)
As previously noted, corporal injury to a spouse is a form of domestic violence. PC 273.5(a) is also related to some other criminal charges in Los Angeles. PC 273.5(a) is similar to charges of domestic battery. However, individuals can be charged with domestic battery even if they do not harm someone else.
PC 273.5 (a) deals with acts of violence against intimate partners. Individuals could also face charges for domestic violence for harming their child. These cases might be prosecuted under:
- California Penal Code Section 273(a): Child Endangerment
- California Penal Code Section 273(d): Child Abuse / Inflicting Physical Punishment On A Child
Results of a PC 273.5(a) Conviction
Individuals convicted under PC 273.5(a) may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on their situation. The penalties for these charges may include:
Misdemeanor Corporal Injury to a Spouse
- Fines: Up to $6,000
- Jail Time: Up to 1 Year
Felony Corporal Injury to a Spouse
- Fines: Up to $6,000
- Prison Time: Up to 4 Years
Additionally, individuals can receive increased penalties if they commit PC 273.5(a) within 7 years of a previous conviction for certain forms of assault or battery. Repeat convictions can lead to:
- Jail Time: Up to 1 Year
- Prison Time: Up to 5 Years
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Furthermore, a conviction under PC 273.5(a) can lead to additional punishments. Individuals in Los Angeles convicted of corporal injury to a spouse may lose:
- Their Right to Firearm Ownership
- Professional Licenses
PC 273.5(a) and Legal Defenses in Los Angeles
Building a defense against an accusation of corporal injury to a spouse is possible. Possible legal defenses to PC 273.5(a) can include arguing that:
Any Injuries Were Accidental
Individuals charged with PC 273.5(a) must intentionally harm an intimate partner to be convicted. Accidental injuries should not lead to fines and incarceration.
The Accusations are False
Unfortunately, some people are falsely accused of causes corporal injury to a spouse. Dealing with false charges for domestic violence can be very difficult.
The Injuries Were a Result of Self-Defense
Individuals in Los Angeles are allowed to protect themselves or other people. Injuries caused while acting defensively should not lead to a conviction under PC 273.5(a).
Building a defense for charges of causing corporal injury to a spouse can be difficult without professional legal help. You can contact a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles to get advice if you are facing these charges.
Professional Help for PC 273.5(a) Charges
Individuals charged under California Penal Code Section 273.5(a): Corporal Injury to Spouse can end up in serious legal trouble. The Simmrin Law Group understands the challenges associated with beating a charge of PC 273.5(a). Find out more about this charge and possible defense by reaching out to us for a FREE consultation today.
You can call us at (310) 997- 4688 or complete our online contact form to learn more.