Los Angeles > Domestic Violence

Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyer

In Los Angeles alone, law enforcement responds to thousands of domestic violence calls each year, often leading to complex and life-altering legal battles for those involved.

A domestic violence accusation can put your reputation, relationships, and freedom at stake. But you don’t have to face it alone.

At The Rodriguez Law Group, our attorneys have extensive experience defending clients against serious charges in Los Angeles. We’re here to advocate for you and work diligently to safeguard your rights every step of the way.

Contact The Rodriguez Law Group today at (213) 995-6767 for a free consultation and begin taking steps to protect your future.

Get A Free Consultation

Table of Contents

• How Does California Define Domestic Violence?
• Why Choose Our Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyers?
• Domestic Violence Penalties and Consequences
• Domestic Violence Statistics in Los Angeles
• How We Can Help You After a Domestic Violence Charge
• What to Do After Authorities Charge You With Domestic Violence
• Let’s Protect Your Future

How Does California Define Domestic Violence?

In California, domestic violence is defined under several laws, each addressing different forms of abuse and setting out various penalties.

At its core, domestic violence refers to any act of abuse or violence within intimate or familial relationships. This can include physical harm, emotional manipulation, or threats that induce fear.

The California Penal Code outlines multiple offenses associated with domestic violence, each with unique definitions and potential consequences.

Types of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence can manifest in various ways:

• Physical Abuse: This involves causing bodily harm, such as hitting, slapping, or restraining someone against their will.
• Emotional Abuse: Psychological tactics like intimidation, isolation, and constant criticism can leave lasting scars and constitute abuse.
• Sexual Abuse: Unwanted sexual contact or behavior falls under this category, even within a consensual relationship.
• Financial Control: Restricting access to financial resources, including withholding money or forbidding employment, is another form of control.
• Stalking and Harassment: Persistent, unwanted attention through following, monitoring, or repeated contact can also lead to domestic violence charges.

Relevant Laws and Statutes in California

California law takes domestic violence cases seriously, implementing specific statutes for various offenses.

Here are some of the primary laws that govern domestic violence cases in Los Angeles:

• Penal Code 273.5: This statute addresses corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant. A conviction under this code requires the prosecution to prove that the accused willfully inflicted bodily harm on the victim, which led to a traumatic condition.
• Penal Code 243(e)(1): This covers domestic battery, which does not require visible injuries. The prosecution only needs to establish that a violent act occurred between people in an intimate relationship.
• Penal Code 273.6: Violating a restraining order issued due to domestic violence allegations is considered a criminal offense and can lead to additional charges.

Who Can Face Domestic Violence Charges?

Potential perpetrators of domestic violence may include:

• Spouses or former spouses
• Dating or romantic partners, past or present
• Roommates or cohabitants, even without a romantic relationship
• Parents of a shared child

Proving Domestic Violence

To secure a conviction for domestic violence, the prosecution must establish that the accused committed a willful act of abuse within a specified relationship, such as a spouse, partner, or cohabitant. Additionally, the prosecution must prove that the act resulted in physical or emotional harm, as specified by the Penal Code.

For a defense attorney, casting doubt on these elements can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case. By challenging the evidence and scrutinizing witness testimonies, defense attorneys work to undermine the accusations and reduce the likelihood of a conviction.

Why Choose Our Los Angeles Domestic Violence Lawyers?

When facing domestic violence charges in Los Angeles, a legal team that knows the system inside and out can make all the difference.

At The Rodriguez Law Group, we bring years of hands-on experience to each case we handle. With a former prosecutor leading our team, we understand how the opposition thinks, which gives us a unique advantage when crafting a defense strategy.

We’ve successfully defended clients against all manner of domestic violence charges—from misdemeanor domestic battery to serious felonies like corporal injury and child endangerment.

Our office is conveniently located at 626 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 460, a short drive from the Los Angeles Convention Center. This central location allows us to stay connected with the local court system and easily access case files and court records.

In domestic violence cases, every detail matters. Our team digs deep into the facts, exploring every potential defense angle, from questioning witness credibility to challenging the interpretation of evidence. We know what’s at stake, and we’re committed to helping you protect your future.

Domestic Violence Penalties and Consequences

The consequences of a domestic violence conviction can be severe, affecting not only your immediate freedom but also your future opportunities and personal relationships.

California law divides domestic violence penalties into various categories, including economic, non-economic, and punitive damages. Let’s break down what you could face if convicted of domestic violence in Los Angeles.

Economic Penalties

Economic penalties for domestic violence in California can include substantial fines, which vary depending on whether the offense is a misdemeanor or a felony:

• Misdemeanor Domestic Battery (Penal Code 243(e)(1)): Fines can reach up to $2,000, along with possible probation requirements.
• Felony Domestic Violence (Penal Code 273.5): Fines for felony convictions can be as high as $10,000, especially in cases involving prior offenses or severe injury.

Non-Economic Consequences

Beyond fines, a conviction can lead to numerous non-economic repercussions that impact various areas of your life:

• Loss of Custody or Visitation Rights: Domestic violence convictions often affect family court proceedings. You could face limitations or even lose custody rights if a judge deems you a danger to the children involved.
• Mandatory Counseling: California courts typically require offenders to complete a year-long batterer’s intervention program, which involves weekly counseling sessions.
• Employment and Housing Challenges: A criminal record can make securing employment or housing difficult, as potential landlords and employers often conduct background checks.

Punitive Damages

For felony convictions, prison time is a real possibility, with sentences reaching up to four years for corporal injury charges under Penal Code 273.5.

Additionally, those convicted may face:

• Restraining Orders: These orders can restrict your ability to contact or even approach the victim. Violating a restraining order itself carries further penalties.
• Loss of Firearm Rights: California prohibits individuals convicted of domestic violence from owning or possessing firearms, sometimes permanently, which can badly hurt those who value their Second Amendment rights.

Domestic Violence Statistics in Los Angeles

Prevalence of Domestic Violence

In Los Angeles County, approximately 20% of women and 14% of men will experience domestic violence during their lives. These figures reflect a concerning reality, as domestic violence affects individuals across all demographics.

Additionally, recent data reveals that in California, rates of intimate partner violence are higher than the national average, with 32.9% of women and 27.3% of men experiencing this type of violence, compared to 24.3% of women and 13.8% of men nationwide.

Recent Trends in Domestic Violence

Domestic violence incidents resulting in fatalities have risen over the past several years. For example, the number of women murdered by male intimate partners in Los Angeles increased from 928 to 997 in a recent two-year period, according to the same source above.

Demographic Insights

Women are disproportionately affected by domestic violence in Los Angeles, accounting for 76.5% of victims in one recent year according to the 2021 Department of Public Health report. The issue cuts across all demographic lines, although certain groups may face specific barriers in reporting incidents or seeking help. These include cultural stigmas, fear of retribution, and lack of access to resources.

The Link Between Domestic Violence and Homelessness

Domestic violence is a significant driver of homelessness, particularly among women. In Los Angeles County, over 60% of homeless women reported experiencing violence in the previous year, and 25.7% reported frequent or constant violence. With more than 18,330 homeless women in the county, many face the stark choice between enduring abuse or risking homelessness due to a lack of safe, affordable housing.

Reporting and Availability of Services

Nationally, victims report less than half of intimate partner violence cases to the police. The same holds true in Los Angeles, where limited resources exacerbate the challenges for victims seeking refuge. In one recent year, only 17% of emergency shelter beds were available to women, though they constitute nearly a third of the homeless population.

How We Can Help You After a Domestic Violence Charge

Given these alarming statistics, it’s no wonder that the state treats these cases very seriously. This highlights the need for those accused of these charges to have a solid legal defense.

Personalized Legal Strategies

Our team recognizes that no two domestic violence cases are alike. We start by closely examining the details of your case, including any available evidence, witness statements, and police reports.

This comprehensive analysis allows us to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and craft a defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.

Whether it’s challenging the credibility of witnesses or disputing the evidence presented, we leverage our experience to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

Aggressive Defense Tactics

The stakes are high in domestic violence cases, and the prosecution often pursues aggressive tactics. We counter this by employing equally assertive defense techniques.

Our skilled team can question the validity of evidence, such as whether injuries occurred as claimed or in self-defense. Additionally, we explore alternatives like counseling programs or community service to mitigate the consequences, particularly for first-time offenders.

Domestic violence charges require a vigorous defense, and our team is committed to helping you every step of the way. With the right support, you can face these allegations with confidence.

What to Do After Authorities Charge You With Domestic Violence

Domestic violence charges can feel overwhelming, but you can strengthen your defense and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

1. Avoid Self-Incrimination

Refrain from discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney. Opposing parties will take anything you say and use it against you, so exercise your right to remain silent.

2. Preserve Evidence

Collect any documents or records that might support your side of the story. This could include emails, text messages, photographs, and medical records. Keeping a record of receipts, travel records, or phone logs could help establish an alibi or provide context that counters the accusations against you.

3. Follow All Court Orders

In most domestic violence cases, courts issue restraining or protective orders that individuals must strictly follow. Violating these orders can lead to additional charges and significantly worsen the outcome of your case. Even if you disagree with the order, respecting its terms demonstrates to the court that you take the legal process seriously.

4. Consult with an Attorney Immediately

Domestic violence cases move quickly, so hire our legal team as early as possible. By discussing the details of your situation with an attorney, you can gain a clearer understanding of your options and begin building a defense strategy right away.

5. Bring All Relevant Information to Your Consultation

To make the most of your initial consultation, bring any documents related to your case, such as police reports, witness statements, and restraining orders. The more information you provide, the better you will equip your attorney to assess your situation and advise you on your next steps.

Let’s Protect Your Future

Domestic violence charges can have life-changing consequences, affecting your freedom, reputation, and future. Acting quickly and decisively can make all the difference in safeguarding your rights and preparing a strong defense.

Don’t face this challenge alone—reach out to us today (213) 995-6767 for a free consultation, and let us help you protect your future.

Get A Free Consultation