Moreno Valley Domestic Violence Lawyer

Moreno Valley Domestic Violence Attorney

Domestic violence is a broad charge that can cover other criminal offenses. However, a domestic violence charge may occur when an offense happens between those living in the same household or with members of the same family. These charges can come with serious consequences that affect your family and future. That’s where a Moreno Valley domestic violence lawyer can help you through every step of the complex legal process.

If you’ve been charged with a domestic violence offense in California, you need a strong legal team behind you to compose a strong defense. Domestic violence accusations often occur in the heat of the moment and have many angles that need consideration in determining guilt. Having an experienced domestic violence lawyer from Brown & Stedman LLP team can mean the difference between severe penalties and acquittal.

What Qualifies as Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence entails violent behavior that occurs between family members or those living under the same roof. There is generally a pattern of destructive behavior present in a domestic violence case, rather than a one-time occurrence. It can include sexual, emotional, physical, or psychological tactics used to intimidate or control another person.

Some of the most commonly reported types of domestic violence offenses include:

• Sexual abuse: This could include sexual assault, rape, or sexual exploitation.
• Physical abuse: Physical abuse can include many forms of assault, such as hitting, slapping, kicking, or harming another person intentionally.
• Psychological abuse: This form of abuse involves emotional harm used to control or terrorize another person. This could include tactics like humiliation, gaslighting, or verbal abuse.
• Stalking: Inducing fear by following someone around, with or without their knowledge, can fall under the category of stalking.
• Digital abuse: This can involve using outlets like social media pages, texts, or emails to cause harm against another closely related person.

Penalties for domestic violence offenses are typically more severe than those for criminal offenses. However, the relationship between the defendant and victim plays a significant role in these types of cases.

Possible Penalties for Domestic Violence Conviction in California

Penalties for domestic violence convictions vary in California based on the offense and criminal history. A simple assault may receive a misdemeanor charge that includes a fine of up to $1,000 and a year in county jail. A domestic assault charge could manifest in a $2,000 fine and one year in county jail, while a felony domestic assault charge could carry a penalty of 2-6 years in a state prison with higher fines.

A domestic violence charge could require the implementation of a restraining order, keeping you from your family and home. You are more likely to lose custody of your children. Under California law, a domestic violence charge on your record will also prevent you from owning or purchasing firearms.

An experienced Moreno Valley domestic violence lawyer can help you understand your charge and the possible consequences you could face if convicted.

Why You Need a Moreno Valley Domestic Violence Lawyer

At Brown & Stedman LLP, we work to help you avoid conviction by examining every area of your case. In some cases, you may have been falsely accused or acted in self-defense or the defense of others in the home. We will also ensure that your rights are upheld in every level of the legal process. Any violation of these rights could lead to an acquittal.

We work closely with you throughout the process and can seek expert medical and witness testimony to find the truth. If you’ve been falsely accused by a vindictive accuser in Moreno Valley, we fight to uphold your reputation and get your case dismissed and cleared from your record.

FAQs

Q: What Happens in a Domestic Violence Case in California?

A: If you’re convicted of a domestic violence charge in California, you may face a restraining order to keep away from the victim. The first step in a domestic violence case is the arraignment, which informs you of the specific charges you’re facing. You have the option to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. The preliminary hearings determine if your charge is a misdemeanor or felony, and then you go to trial for a verdict, followed by sentencing.

Q: What Happens to First Time Domestic Violence Offenders in California?

A: A first-time domestic violence offender in California is more likely to receive a misdemeanor charge. Sentencing depends on the evidence presented and the severity of the domestic violence allegations. California courts impose a mandatory probation sentence on offenders awaiting further legal proceedings. If there is visible evidence of injury to the victim, you may face arrest.

Q: Can a Domestic Violence Case Be Dismissed in California?

A: A domestic violence case may be dismissed in California if there isn’t enough evidence to support the charge. A rights violation during your arrest or arraignment, or any procedural errors, could also be a reason for acquittal. Other reasons why a prosecutor may drop charges include a victim who refuses to cooperate, proof of acting in self-defense, or if you can reach a civil compromise with the victim.

Q: How Much Jail Time for Domestic Violence in California?

A: If you’re charged with a misdemeanor, you might only receive one year of county jail time. However, a felony charge could require you to serve 2-6 years in a state prison. Having other convictions on your criminal record increases your chances of receiving longer jail time. The seriousness of the victim’s injuries can also increase your sentencing.

Contact a Moreno Valley Domestic Violence Lawyer Today

It’s imperative that you contact an experienced lawyer immediately following your arrest. A knowledgeable Moreno Valley domestic violence lawyer can greatly improve your defense and help you navigate the complicated and overwhelming legal proceedings that accompany a domestic violence charge.

At Brown & Stedman LLP, we understand that your future and reputation are at risk when you’re facing such serious charges. Call us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your situation. We can begin building a defense strategy to get you the most favorable outcome possible for your case.