Accused of Domestic Violence?
Call (877) 378-6147 for an aggressive Ventura defense attorney!
If you have been charged with domestic violence, it is in your interest to contact a Ventura criminal defense attorney today. An attorney will be able to present the facts of your case in a court of law, with the intent of reaching a resolution that sees you cleared of any wrongdoing. Many innocent individuals can find themselves accused of committing this crime when another person makes false allegations out of anger.
Accused of Domestic Violence?
Get expert legal defense now. Contact us at (877) 378-6147 for a free consultation!
Types of Domestic Violence Charges
Domestic violence can encompass a range of behaviors. Some of the most common types of charges include:
Physical Abuse:
Physical abuse involves any form of bodily harm, including:
- Hitting: Slapping, punching, or kicking.
- Choking: Strangulation or any effort to restrict airflow.
- Other Harmful Acts: Using objects as weapons or causing injuries that result in bruises, cuts, or broken bones.
Emotional and Psychological Abuse:
Emotional abuse can be just as harmful as physical violence, and often harder to detect. It can include:
- Threats: Intimidating someone with harm or violence.
- Intimidation: Using fear to control the victim.
- Manipulation: Gaslighting or using deceit to confuse and control the victim's perception of reality.
Economic Abuse:
This type of abuse involves controlling the victim's financial resources and can include:
- Restricting Access to Money: Preventing the victim from accessing their own funds.
- Forcing Dependence: Making it difficult for the victim to work or earn money, creating financial dependence.
- Controlling Finances: Dictating how money is spent, sometimes leaving the victim with no financial independence.
Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges
If you’re facing domestic violence charges, several defenses might be available to challenge the allegations:
- False Allegations:
In some cases, accusations are made out of anger, revenge, or jealousy. If the accuser has a motive to lie, your attorney can present evidence to show the allegations are false. - Self-Defense:
If you acted in response to an immediate threat, you may be able to claim self-defense. This defense can be used when someone is defending themselves from harm, but the force used must be proportional to the threat. - Lack of Evidence:
Domestic violence cases often rely on the victim's testimony. If there is insufficient evidence, such as a lack of physical injuries, witnesses, or a history of abuse, the case may fall apart. - Accidental Injury:
Sometimes, injuries happen unintentionally during a disagreement. If you can prove that the harm was accidental and not malicious, this may work in your favor.
The Impact of a Domestic Violence Conviction
A domestic violence conviction can have serious, lasting consequences:
Custody and Family Law Implications:
A conviction can affect your ability to obtain or retain child custody. Courts typically prioritize the child's safety, and a domestic violence conviction could be seen as a risk to the child’s well-being.
Restraining Orders:
Domestic violence convictions often result in restraining orders, which can:
- Prohibit contact with the victim or others.
- Disrupt family life and personal relationships.
- Affect where you can live and work.
Long-Term Consequences:
A domestic violence conviction can leave you with a criminal record that affects:
- Employment: Finding a job can be more difficult, especially in positions requiring trust or dealing with vulnerable populations.
- Housing: Many landlords may deny housing to individuals with domestic violence convictions.
- Travel: A conviction could limit your ability to travel, particularly internationally.
The consequences of a conviction can impact every aspect of your life. Having an experienced attorney by your side can help minimize the damage and work towards a favorable outcome.
Top Rated Lawyer
I have spent the last two decades representing clients throughout Ventura County. Having handled numerous domestic violence cases, I have earned an outstanding reputation amongst not only my past clients, but also the legal community.
Why work with my firm?
- I have handled thousands of criminal cases
- I have achieved "not guilty" verdicts
- I have nearly a decade of experience as a former Ventura County prosecutor
- I have been given the highest "Superb" rating on Avvo
Crimes Involved in Domestic Violence
Domestic violence refers to such criminal acts as:
- Assault & battery
- Stalking
- Trespassing
- Threats
- Verbal abuse
- Molestation
- Sexual assault or rape
- Child neglect
- Direct violation of a domestic court order
How a Conviction May Effect Your Life
Penalties for these crimes can include:
- Jail or prison time
- Fines
- Restraining orders
- Probation
- Mandatory anger management classes
In addition, a person convicted of a domestic violence offense may see a significant impact to their personal and professional life. They may be subjected to job loss and future difficulty in finding gainful employment, as well as the possible inability to purchase a home or vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What should I do if I’m falsely accused of domestic violence?
If you’ve been falsely accused, it's important to stay calm and avoid any further confrontation. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. They can help gather evidence, such as witnesses, alibis, or text messages, to prove your innocence. - Can a domestic violence charge be dismissed?
Yes, a domestic violence charge can be dismissed if the prosecution doesn’t have enough evidence to prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt. Your attorney can work to challenge the evidence and request a dismissal. - Can domestic violence charges be reduced to a lesser offense?
In some cases, domestic violence charges may be reduced to a lesser offense, such as assault or battery. This typically depends on the circumstances of the case, your criminal history, and the willingness of the prosecution to negotiate. - What happens during a domestic violence restraining order hearing?
During a restraining order hearing, the judge will listen to both parties and decide whether a restraining order should be granted. If granted, the order may prevent you from contacting the person who filed it, or restrict where you can go. A lawyer can help you present your case. - Do I have to go to jail if convicted of domestic violence?
Not necessarily. If convicted, sentencing can vary depending on the severity of the offense and whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony. Penalties can include jail or prison time, probation, mandatory counseling, or community service. - Will a domestic violence conviction affect my immigration status?
Yes, if you are not a U.S. citizen, a domestic violence conviction can impact your immigration status, including deportation or being denied re-entry into the country. It’s crucial to speak with both an immigration attorney and a criminal defense lawyer. - How can I protect myself from being wrongfully accused of domestic violence?
To protect yourself, avoid any physical confrontations, keep communication respectful, and consider keeping a record of any interactions with the person involved. If you feel threatened, it’s important to contact the authorities or a lawyer to protect your rights.
Facing Domestic Violence Charges?
Protect your future—contact us at (877) 378-6147 today for experienced representation.
