Norwalk Domestic Violence Attorney
A charge of domestic violence in California is serious and can lead to consequences, including being subjected to a restraining order, jail time, fines, and having a criminal record. If you live in Norwalk and have been accused of using physical abuse or threats against a partner or someone you live with, you should contact a Norwalk domestic violence lawyer who can educate you on your legal options.
Shield Law, APC, offers legal counsel to those facing domestic violence accusations in Los Angeles County and Southern California. We understand how much a domestic violence accusation can affect your emotional well-being and family relationships. We work tirelessly to fight back against allegations and to secure the most optimal solution to your case
Domestic Violence Charges in California Explained
The first step in successfully challenging a domestic violence charge is to understand the laws pertaining to domestic violence.
In California, domestic violence, often referred to as intimate partner violence, can be charged under two sections of California’s Penal Code, § 273.5 and § 243(e)(1). Per these statutes, it is considered domestic violence when a person inflicts bodily harm or commits battery, including threatening to cause harm, against any of the following individuals:
- A current spouse or former spouse
- Someone they live with or used to live with
- A person with whom they have or have had a dating relationship
- A current or former fiancé
- The mother or father of their biological child
According to the California Department of Public Health, 1 in 5 women and 1 in 7 men in the state have reported being subjected to physical violence from an intimate partner.
Consequences for Domestic Violence in Norwalk
Depending on the type of domestic violence alleged, a domestic violence conviction can lead to severe consequences.
A person found guilty of domestic assault and battery (§ 243(e)(1)) faces a potential penalty of up to one year in county jail, a fine of up to $2,000, or both. If they are given probation, they may be required to complete a batterer’s treatment program or another counseling program.
Those found guilty of causing corporal injury to a victim under California Penal Code § 273.5 can receive a felony conviction, which may lead to a state prison sentence between 2-4 years. In certain cases, they may be sent to county jail for no more than one year, be required to pay a $6,000 fine, or both.
While domestic violence can lead to potential jail, prison time, and/or steep fines, an accusation alone may be sufficient for a court to grant a protective order against an accused person. It can also complicate a child custody case down the road.
Role of a Norwalk Domestic Violence Lawyer
When it comes to domestic violence, leaving your fate to chance can translate to financial difficulties in the future and restrictions on your freedom. Persons with a criminal record are shown to face an unemployment rate of 30%, which is much higher than the unemployment rate for other groups.
From the moment you are facing an accusation of domestic violence, it is imperative that you contact a knowledgeable Norwalk domestic violence lawyer to avoid these consequences.
When you work with a trusted criminal defense attorney at Shield Law, APC, you are served with diligence and compassion. We help you by:
- Preparing a meticulous case with evidence demonstrating the allegation was false or providing mitigating evidence that is relevant to the case
- Negotiating a plea with the Los Angeles prosecutor to obtain a reduced sentence, which might include entirely preventing a felony conviction
- Fight for you in court if going to trial is the most appropriate path in your case
Our years of practice in Los Angeles County have allowed us to gain a deep familiarity with law enforcement, courts, and prosecutors. You can be confident that your case is handled with the utmost professionalism when you are represented by our criminal defense team.
FAQs
How much a domestic violence lawyer costs in Los Angeles County can vary depending on the attorney and the complexity of the case. If you are being charged with a felony, and your case proceeds to trial, this may lead to higher fees than fighting a misdemeanor charge and negotiating a plea.
You can learn more about representation costs during an initial consultation.
Beating a domestic violence charge in California may be challenging, especially if it is a felony charge. In 2022, 60% of adult felony arrests resulted in a conviction. With the help of a skilled attorney, you may be able to challenge evidence purporting to prove domestic violence by exposing false allegations or demonstrating that you acted in self-defense.
The sentence for domestic violence depends on whether it is charged as a misdemeanor under § 243(e)(1) or as a felony under § 273.5. A misdemeanor domestic violence conviction can lead to a year in county jail and a $2,000 fine. A felony conviction can carry up to four years in state prison and a $6,000 fine. A judge may impose additional penalties depending on aggravating factors in the case.
Whether or not a domestic violence case can be dismissed in California depends on the evidence in the case. If the prosecution has weak evidence or the alleged victim refuses to cooperate with the investigation, it can result in a dismissal even before trial. A victim recanting an allegation does not automatically lead to a dismissal of charges on its own.
Consult a Seasoned Domestic Violence Lawyer Today
You do not have to handle your domestic violence case on your own. Even when you believe you are facing a false accusation, it is important to consult a seasoned domestic violence lawyer who can guide you on adequately resolving this legal matter so you can focus on your relationships and well-being.
Located in La Mirada, less than 5 miles away from Norwalk, Shield Law, APC, works tirelessly to protect your rights and your future. Schedule a consultation today to learn how we can help.