In California, an individual can receive a domestic violence felony or a misdemeanor during a domestic incident. A domestic violence charge is classified based on several factors. A clear understanding of domestic charges in California must ensure an individual can guard against these legal issues.
Simmrin Law Group can help you defend yourself against a domestic violence charge in California. We can put you in touch with a California domestic violence attorney who will learn about your charge. From here, we can help you build a plan to get your charge reduced or dismissed.
How Domestic Violence Is Defined in California
California lawmakers define domestic violence as abuse or threats of abuse against others. An individual in an intimate relationship can perform an act of domestic violence against their partner. In addition, an individual can be charged with domestic violence against a family member.
Common acts of domestic violence include:
- Physical Abuse: One person intentionally or recklessly hurts or tries to hurt someone else.
- Sexual Abuse: An individual engages in unwanted sexual activity with another person.
- Making Threats: A person uses threats or promises to harm someone to incite fear.
- Harmful Behaviors: These can include harassing or hitting someone or damaging another person’s property.
Domestic violence is a serious claim and must be treated accordingly. An individual charged with domestic violence in California can be penalized under Penal Code §273.5. Before appearing in a California domestic violence trial, an individual should seek help from a criminal defense attorney.
Why It Is Beneficial to Hire a California Domestic Violence Attorney
A California domestic violence lawyer works diligently on behalf of their client. Rather than encourage their client to accept a domestic violence charge, the attorney works in lockstep with this individual to fight against it. The lawyer and their client review the facts about a domestic violence charge and build an argument to counter it.
Initially, a California domestic violence attorney asks their client lots of questions. The attorney wants to learn as much as possible about the client and their domestic violence charge. Then, the lawyer can determine the best course of action to help the client reduce or dismiss their charge.
A California domestic violence lawyer knows the ins and outs of criminal defense law. The attorney can educate their client about the legal process and how to reduce or dismiss a charge. Ultimately, lawyers do everything they can to help clients avoid long-term legal problems.
Talk to the criminal defense lawyers at the Simmrin Law Group today about your case. The sooner you speak to an attorney, the sooner you can begin to build a defense against the domestic violence charges levied against you.
Those Found Guilty of Domestic Violence in California Can Face Prison Time
An individual guilty of a domestic violence felony can be required to serve up to four years in prison. The sentence can be longer, depending on the severity of the injuries an individual inflicted on someone else. In this instance, the individual must also complete a domestic violence class.
Those previously found guilty of criminal acts can face an extended domestic violence prison sentence in California. These individuals may be required to spend up to five years in prison if found guilty of domestic violence. They may also be fined up to $10,000.
A California domestic violence lawyer wants their client to be innocent in court. This ensures their client can avoid prison time and other penalties. If a domestic violence attorney has concerns that their client may receive a guilty sentence, the lawyer may propose a plea agreement.
How a California Domestic Violence Plea Agreement Works
A California domestic violence attorney can propose a settlement agreement at any point before a trial date. In the agreement, the attorney can agree that their client will serve less prison time or a lower fine than what this individual would face if found guilty during a trial. Meanwhile, the client is still punished for a domestic violence charge.
It is essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons of proposing or accepting a domestic violence plea agreement. A California domestic violence lawyer can evaluate a settlement offer in detail. The attorney can help their client decide if now is the right time to present a settlement proposal or approve one.
Without a settlement offer, a California domestic violence lawyer and their client explore every opportunity to resolve their case. The attorney and their client assess evidence relating to the case and how to present it to a judge or jury. If they are successful, the individual accused of domestic violence will have their charge dismissed.
Do Not Wait to Find a California Domestic Violence Attorney
A California domestic violence charge will not disappear on its own. The charge can make it tough for an individual to enjoy life fully. If an individual is found guilty of domestic violence, pursuing jobs in certain fields can also become difficult.
By partnering with a domestic violence lawyer, an individual can take the first step to get their charge reduced or dismissed. The attorney is upfront and honest with their client and works with this individual to achieve optimal case results. On top of that, the lawyer provides their clients with tips and recommendations on how to handle the legal process.
Finding a California domestic violence attorney who meets an individual’s expectations does not take long. This lawyer has the skills and experience to ensure that their client receives comprehensive legal support at each stage of their litigation. If any legal roadblocks crop up during a domestic violence case, the attorney addresses them with precision and care.
How to Find the Right Domestic Violence Lawyer
You have the option of working with the public defender when charged with domestic violence in California, but we do not recommend doing so. It is in your best interest to work with a criminal defense lawyer from the Simmrin Law Group when facing a domestic violence charge. You can find the right lawyer by asking the following questions at your free consultation with our firm:
- How many years of experience do you have defending clients charged with domestic violence?
- What types of evidence do you look for to have charges dismissed or reduced?
- Do you have experience working with the prosecutor assigned to my case?
- How often will you communicate with me about the case?
- Will you handle all communication with the prosecutor?
- Will you prepare me for depositions, cross-examination, and trial?
- If I am convicted, will you continue to represent me through the appeals process or at sentencing?
- How quickly can I expect to hear back from you after calling or emailing?
Select a California Domestic Violence Attorney from Simmrin Law Group
Simmrin Law Group is the leading law firm for those accused of domestic violence in California. We make it simple to engage with a first-rate California domestic violence lawyer who dedicates the time, energy, and resources to ensure you can present a strong argument in court. For more information or to request a free case evaluation, please contact us today.