Los Angeles Spousal Abuse Lawyers
At one time, most domestic violence calls resulted in a routine police visit and a possible order to spend the night apart. Today, however, reports of domestic violence or spousal abuse are aggressively pursued by law enforcement officials and the judicial system. While these measures are an effort to protect innocent people from harm at the hands of their loved ones, it has unfortunately led to an increase in overzealous prosecution of innocent people. Being charged with domestic violence now typically results in a full arrest with extensive bail. If you are charged with domestic violence, do not hesitate to contact a domestic violence or spousal abuse attorney in Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura counties immediately at (888) 579-4844 to arrange a free consultation.
While domestic violence is typically thought of as violence between husband and wife, it includes any assault or battery against the victim with whom they are living. This can be a spouse, a child, a parent, an elderly relative or even a roommate. What is extremely important to understand, is that charges of domestic violence can be brought against you even if the alleged victim does not press charges. The decision to bring charges of domestic violence is made by the prosecutor and not the victim. While this may seem strange, the reason for this is to protect the interests of the person who may not be able to make appropriate decisions on their own behalf in these emotionally charged situations.
The potential penalties for spousal abuse or domestic violence cases can vary depending on the circumstances involved. Even first-time offenders are typically put on probation, they can get some jail time and are required to complete a batterer's program. They may also be required to complete community service. By contacting a spousal abuse lawyer in Los Angeles, or Ventura, you stand a better chance of getting the charges against you reduced or even completely dropped. In the event of a conviction, your Los Angeles spousal abuse defense attorney can help keep you out of jail. Factors such as prior convictions, whether you are on parole or probation, and any extenuating circumstances will be taken into consideration when the court determines bail and penalties for spousal abuse or domestic violence.
It's important to understand that the victim does not need to display any visible signs of injury in order for Los Angeles domestic violence charges to be brought against you. Criminal battery is defined as any unlawful force against another person. Verbal or emotional abuse in conjunction with threatening or aggressive behavior can be deemed to be domestic criminal abuse and can be treated as aggressively as physical assault. If you have specific questions about what is or isn't domestic violence, speak with your domestic violence lawyer in Los Angeles, Orange County or Ventura County.
While domestic violence laws exist to protect people from being abused by those they live with, overzealous prosecution has led to an epidemic of wrongful accusations. Domestic violence charges can have a devastating effect on both your personal and professional life; do not take the risk of trying to face these charges without expert legal counsel. For more information about domestic violence and the possible repercussions of being arrested on these charges, call us today.
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