Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyers

Skilled Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys Representing Clients in Los Angeles, California

Facing accusations of domestic violence can turn your world upside down and jeopardize the personal and professional life you've worked hard to cultivate. When facing such accusations, it's critical to have a dedicated legal team by your side, committed to safeguarding your rights and providing a robust defense.

At Zarabi Law, we recognize the gravity of your situation, and we are ready to help you find a resolution. It's our mission to ensure your voice is heard and your side of the story is presented at every stage of your legal criminal defense.

What Is Considered Domestic Violence in California?

Under California Penal Code Section 13700, domestic violence refers to abuse committed against an intimate partner. This can include a current or former spouse, cohabitant, fiancé, dating partner, or someone with whom the accused shares a child.

Domestic violence doesn't only involve physical harm. It can also include emotional abuse, threats, harassment, stalking, sexual assault, or destruction of property. Our Los Angeles domestic violence defense attorneys will examine every detail to determine whether the alleged conduct meets the legal threshold for a charge.

Common domestic violence charges in California include:

• Penal Code 243(e)(1) – Domestic battery
• Penal Code 273.5 – Infliction of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant
• Penal Code 273d – Child abuse
• Penal Code 368 – Elder abuse
• Penal Code 422 – Criminal threats
• Penal Code 646.9 – Stalking

Many of these offenses can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances. A Los Angeles domestic violence defense lawyer can help clarify the nature of the charges and the potential outcomes.

What's at Stake With Domestic Violence Charges in Los Angeles?

In California, being convicted of a domestic violence offense can lead to harsh penalties, including:

• Jail or prison time
• Steep fines
• Being subjected to a restraining order and its consequences (such as being unable to continue living in a shared home)
• Loss of child custody or visitation rights
• A ban on firearm ownership or possession
• A lasting criminal record
• Potential deportation for non-citizens

These repercussions can affect nearly every facet of your life, casting a long shadow over your personal relationships, employment opportunities, and social standing.

The social stigma attached to domestic violence charges in Los Angeles can be crippling. It can lead to ostracism from your community, affect your relationships with family and friends, and severely impact your mental health. Many accused individuals find it difficult to rebuild trust and reputation even after proving their innocence. Therefore, the emotional and social implications demand attention and strategic management, which is where our team comes in to relieve some of these pressures by handling the intricacies of your case.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony Domestic Violence Charges

The distinction between misdemeanor and felony charges can significantly alter the outcome of your case. Prosecutors have wide discretion in how they file charges, and this decision is often based on:

• The severity of injuries that were allegedly caused by domestic violence
• Whether a weapon was involved
• The accused's prior criminal history
• Whether the alleged victim is particularly vulnerable (child, elderly, etc.)

A Los Angeles domestic violence defense attorney may negotiate to have felony charges reduced to misdemeanors or dismissed entirely. Avoiding a felony conviction can make a substantial difference in your future.

What are Potential Defense Strategies in Your Domestic Violence Case?

Depending on the details of the incident, you may be able to employ either a negative defense or an affirmative one. A negative defense counters the alleged victim's claims, such as arguing that the allegations are false and that there is no substantive evidence of violence. You might also argue that the injuries or wounds the alleged victim had were preexisting or were inflicted by someone else.

You might also assert an "affirmative defense," where you do not dispute that you caused the alleged victim's wounds but instead provide context that may justify it. Self-defense or defense of others is a common affirmative defense. You could also explain that the injury was unintentional and not the result of purposeful violence.

No matter the circumstances that led to your current predicament, our lawyers are adept at engaging with prosecutors to discuss charge reductions or plea agreements. We are also prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. Our team's primary focus is on achieving the most favorable outcome for you, tailored to your specific needs and situation.

A comprehensive defense strategy involves meticulous case preparation and rigorous investigation. This includes gathering evidence, securing witness testimonies, and consulting with experts to challenge the prosecution's narrative. Each defense strategy is customized to suit the needs and circumstances of the accused, ensuring that we leverage every piece of evidence and legal tool at our disposal.

What to Do In Case of False Allegations?

While many allegations of domestic violence are grounded in fact, and many others contain at least some truth, there are also a significant number of claims that are entirely fabricated. When one person falsely claims to be a domestic violence victim, it is usually for personal gain or other self-serving reasons.

False domestic violence allegations most often occur:

• During contentious divorce and child custody disputes, when one parent wants to deprive the other of their custody and visitation rights
• After the end of a romantic relationship, when one partner wants to punish the other
• Because of the desire to destroy someone's career or reputation following a dispute
• Following a messy breakup when a former partner becomes convinced by family and friends that they must have been a victim of abuse

False allegations cause very real harm to the accused, and that's often the point of making them. If the accusations against you are baseless lies, our attorneys will work tirelessly to expose the truth and clear your name.

Why Choose a Los Angeles Domestic Violence Defense Attorney from Zarabi Law?

Domestic violence allegations can shatter your life in an instant. Your reputation, your family relationships, and your freedom are on the line. A skilled Los Angeles domestic violence defense attorney at Zarabi Law can help you fight back with a defense tailored to your unique circumstances.

From the moment of arrest through the final disposition of your case, you deserve a tireless advocate who knows the court system, understands the nuances of California domestic violence laws, and will not back down in the face of aggressive prosecution.

With every case, we bring the full weight of our legal knowledge, investigative resources, and courtroom experience to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome. Don't face these charges alone.

Contact Our Los Angeles, CA Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers

Remember, you do not have to navigate this trying time alone. Zarabi Law is here to stand with you, fight for you, and help you move forward with your life. Contact our Los Angeles domestic abuse defense attorneys at 213-786-4055 to set up your free consultation. From our Los Angeles office, we serve clients throughout California.

FAQs: Domestic Violence Defense in Los Angeles