Murrieta Domestic Violence Lawyer

MURRIETA DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ATTORNEY

Navigating family dynamics and romantic relationships can be difficult. People respond to stress and difficult emotions differently, so conflict can easily arise. While conflict is normal in any close relationship, violence is never an acceptable response to conflict. Domestic violence is a major problem that must be addressed very carefully. If you or a loved one is the victim of domestic violence, trust the Edgar & Dow to help.

What Is Domestic Violence?

The term “domestic violence” covers a wide range of actions, some of which are surprising or unexpected. If you believe you may be the victim of domestic violence, it can be helpful to know how domestic violence is classified in California.

In California, there are many different people who can be victims of domestic violence. It is against the law to harm, or threaten to harm, the following people:

• A current or former spouse
• An individual you used to share a home with
• Someone you are dating
• Someone you have a child with
• A partner you are intimate with
• A parent
• Other relatives

Most people assume that domestic violence occurs almost exclusively between romantic partners, but that is not always the case. Parents, roommates, and co-parents can also be domestic abusers. It is also useful to know what actions are considered domestic violence. Some of these are:

• Physical harm or the threat of physical harm
• Sexual assault
• Making someone afraid that they will be hurt
• Stalking
• Harassment
• Sharing intimate photos

Many other actions may also be considered acts of domestic violence. Working with an experienced domestic violence attorney can help you determine how severe your case is.

Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction

As with many legal cases, the consequences of a domestic violence conviction can vary. The severity of the abuse and any history of domestic violence will play a significant role in determining how serious the punishments will be.

Some of the most common sentences for individuals who are convicted of domestic violence are:

• Domestic Violence Classes: These mandatory classes typically last a full year.
• Fines: In California, there is typically a fine of several hundred dollars that is used to support victims of domestic violence.
• Loss of Custody: Parents who are convicted of domestic violence may lose custody or visitation rights for their children.
• Probation: There is a mandatory period of at least three years of probation.

How a Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Help

Navigating the legal system can be confusing and overwhelming, no matter the circumstances. That can be especially difficult if you are facing an emotionally draining situation, such as a domestic violence case. Working with an experienced domestic violence attorney can help significantly.

A few ways the team at the Edgar & Dow can help are:

• Experience and Expertise: Our team knows the specifics of domestic violence law in California. We understand the necessary steps in a domestic violence case to ensure that our clients are protected and receive the support they need.
• Resources: If you are unfamiliar with the legal system, then you likely will not know what steps to take or what paperwork is necessary. An experienced domestic violence attorney will have the information and resources necessary to make the process as efficient as possible.
• Support: Choosing to leave a situation that involves domestic violence is very difficult. It can feel isolating and draining. Working with a domestic violence attorney ensures that there is someone who understands what you are facing and can help you navigate the process.

If you are leaving, or even considering leaving, a violent situation, it is in your best interest to work with a domestic violence lawyer.

FAQs

Q: What is the average sentence for domestic violence in California?

A: The sentence handed down following a domestic violence case can vary depending on several factors. If the case is serious enough to be classified as a felony, then there will likely be a mandatory period of time spent in jail. Most cases will require several years of probation, a mandatory domestic violence class, and fines of several hundred dollars. The state of California also requires that a protective order be put in place to protect the person filing the case.

Q: What is the punishment for domestic violence cases?

A: There are different punishments in place for domestic violence cases. If there is a conviction, then there will likely be a minimum amount of time that must be spent in jail or prison, depending on the severity of the case. There may also be:

• Fines
• Required classes
• Restraining orders
• A permanent mark on an individual’s criminal record

Depending on the circumstances, someone who is convicted of domestic violence may also lose custody of their children.

Q: What happens when you get a domestic abuse charge in California?

A: There are several steps that must be taken when a domestic violence case is investigated. There must be a police report made when the report is investigated by law enforcement. If any injuries are visible, then the officers will make an arrest immediately. The person who made the report is given the opportunity to put an emergency protective order in place so that the abuser may not contact them. Once that is all completed, a full investigation will get underway.

Q: How are domestic violence cases handled in California?

A: In most circumstances, domestic violence cases are taken very seriously in California. When a report is made, it will trigger a full investigation into the situation. That evaluation process will give officers the time and information they need to determine how the case should proceed. There are many steps and processes in place currently to provide additional support and protection to victims as they are trying to leave a dangerous situation.

The Edgar & Dow: Your Domestic Violence Attorneys

Making the choice to leave a situation that involves domestic violence is brave, and those victims need as much support as possible. If you believe that you are a victim of domestic violence and you are considering leaving, having an experienced and aggressive domestic violence attorney on your side can provide you with support, resources, and peace of mind throughout the process. Contact the Edgar & Dow for assistance today.