San Bernardino, Victorville Domestic Violence Attorneys

Being charged of a domestic violence crime can have serious repercussions. Domestic violence can be defined as purposefully inflicting harm upon another person whether it is a family member or someone that lives under the same roof. Abuse can be threats or violence that is emotional or physical that causes a traumatic condition.

Although gender is not a factor in being accused of domestic crimes, men tend to be charged more often than women. Domestic violence can involve: a spouse or cohabitant, a former spouse or cohabitant, or the physical abuse or neglect of a child. Usually the violence involves one person forcing the other to submission and gaining dominance over the other.

Accusations are often exaggerated or lack truth completely. If you are innocent, don’t take the fall for something you are not guilty of. Consequences could lead to you being forced to move out of your home or to lose the right to own a weapon. Our attorneys know how to challenge the court whether you are guilty or not. For instance, if your act was in a manner of self-defense, we can present this argument to the court to help lower your charges or to remove them completely.

We represent clients throughout Inland empire, including San Bernardino, Victorville, and Riverside area, with all types of misdemeanor and felony offenses.

Contact us today at (909) 771-2304 for a free consultation and let our experienced attorneys help protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

What Is Considered Domestic Violence in California?

In California, domestic violence is defined by law as abuse committed against an intimate partner. This includes a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, fiancé(e), or a person with whom the accused has had a dating relationship or shares a child. The term "abuse" encompasses various forms of violence, including physical harm, threats, harassment, and emotional abuse. California law mandates that abuse does not solely mean physical injury; it also includes any behavior that could be construed as attempting to exert power and control over another individual through fear and intimidation.

What Are the Penalties for Domestic Violence?

The penalties for domestic violence convictions in California can be severe and life-altering. The severity of the punishment generally depends on the circumstances of the case, including the extent of the injury, the defendant's criminal history, and whether the offense is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. Possible penalties include:

• Misdemeanor Charges: Up to 1 year in county jail, and mandatory participation in a batterer’s intervention program.
• Felony Charges: Ranging from 2 to 6 years in state prison, or more for those with prior convictions on record.
• Fines: Depending on the details of the charges, you can face fines up to $10,000.
• Restraining Orders: Issuance of protective orders restricting the defendant from contacting or coming near the victim.
• Probation: Up to 5 years of formal probation with conditions such as community service and counseling. There is also a minimum of 3 years probation for any felony domestic violence case.
• Loss of Custody Rights: Potential loss of custodial and visitation rights concerning one’s children.
• Firearm Restrictions: Prohibition from owning or possessing firearms as long as the restraining order is in place.

Domestic violence offenses in California are also considered "three strikes" offenses under the state's "Three Strikes" law. This means that if the accused has prior serious or violent felony convictions, a conviction for domestic violence can count as a strike. Accumulating three such strikes can lead to a mandatory sentence of 25 years to life in prison. This underscores the critical importance of having experienced legal representation to navigate these serious charges and work towards the most favorable outcome.

Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges

Several defenses can be employed to fight domestic violence charges in California. These include:

• Self-Defense: Demonstrating that the defendant acted to protect themselves from imminent harm.
• Defense of Others: Arguing that the defendant's actions were intended to protect another person from immediate danger.
• False Accusations: Proving that the accusations are fabricated or exaggerated by the alleged victim.
• Lack of Evidence: Challenging the prosecution's inability to present sufficient evidence to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt.

How a Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Help

Domestic violence cases can be emotionally and legally complex, and it's important to have experienced attorneys on your side to protect your rights. At Bullard & Powell, APC, our San Bernardino and Victorville domestic violence attorneys are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation for those accused of domestic violence.

Services Provided by Our Attorneys

• Case Evaluation: Comprehensive assessment of the case details and the charges faced.
• Legal Advice: Providing clear and knowledgeable guidance on the legal proceedings and potential outcomes.
• Defense Strategy: Developing and implementing an effective defense strategy tailored to the specifics of the case.
• Representation in Court: Advocating on behalf of the client in pre-trial hearings, trials, and sentencing hearings.
• Negotiation: Engaging in negotiations with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges or secure favorable pleas.
• Evidence Gathering: Collecting and examining evidence, including witness statements, police reports, and medical records.
• Counseling Referral: Connecting clients with counseling services to address underlying issues and comply with court conditions.
• Protective Order Challenges: Assisting in modifying or challenging restraining orders placed against the client.
• Appeals: Filing and arguing appeals if necessary to challenge a conviction or unfair sentence.
• Support Through Legal Process: Providing continuous support and updates throughout the legal process to ensure the client’s rights are upheld.

Protecting Your Rights in Domestic Violence Cases

Our team understands the sensitive nature of these cases and will work tirelessly to ensure your safety and well-being. Whether you are defending against false accusations or navigating the legal system, we are here to help.

If you are accused of domestic violence, don't hesitate to reach out to our experienced attorneys for the help you need. Your legal rights are our top priority.

Contact us now for a free consultation and let our experienced attorneys defend your rights. Don't face domestic violence charges alone, call (909) 771-2304.