The stakes are high in a domestic violence case. A criminal conviction could result in significant jail time, steep fines, mandatory counseling, and restraining orders. If you have been accused of household abuse, it is essential to consult with a knowledgeable Rancho Cucamonga domestic violence lawyer.
The dedicated criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry understand that family violence cases can be complicated. There are typically two very different sides of the story. Our legal team is committed to ensuring that the truth prevails, and your side of the story is heard.
Types of Domestic Abuse Cases
A staggeringly high number of assistance calls are related to domestic abuse. To decrease incidences of family violence, law enforcement and prosecutors have placed a strong emphasis on charging and prosecuting these offenders. Domestic violence is defined in California Penal Code 273.5 PC as abuse or a threat of abuse by an individual who is in a personal relationship with the alleged victim. Some of acts of domestic violence include:
- Cyberstalking
- Stalking
- Elder abuse
- False imprisonment
- Kidnapping
- Domestic assault
- Domestic battery
- Emotional abuse
- Verbal abuse
- Sexual abuseÂ
Penalties for a Family Violence Conviction
The consequences associated with a domestic violence conviction are long-lasting and harsh. As such, hiring an experienced attorney in Rancho Cucamonga is important when trying to avoid or minimize these potential penalties. Some of these penalties include:
- A maximum of one year in jail for a misdemeanor conviction
- A maximum of four years in state prison for a felony conviction
- Steep fines
- Probation
- A mandatory 26-week anger management course
- A mandatory 52-week rehabilitation course
- A restraining or protective order
- Loss of child custody and visitation rights
- Loss of your right to own or possess firearms
- Loss of professional licensing
Several defenses could be effective in avoiding these consequences, including arguing self-defense or the defense of others, insufficient evidence, false accusation, the injuries were accidental, and the injuries were not a result of your actions. Ultimately, a careful investigation and review of the facts of your case by our skilled legal team would determine the most effective defense strategy.
What to Do After Being Arrested for Domestic Violence in Rancho Cucamonga
If you have been accused of domestic violence, there are several things to remember. When speaking with law enforcement, it is best to remain calm and provide the officer with your identifying information. However, you should avoid answering any questions related to your charges or discussing the alleged incident with the police. Similarly, do not make any statements about the incident in question to anyone, especially your accuser.
You must also refrain from contacting, confronting, or arguing with your accuser because this may be detrimental to your case. Lastly, it is essential to hire a knowledgeable defense attorney in Rancho Cucamonga who could guide you through the process and protect your rights during your domestic violence case.
Speak with a Leading Rancho Cucamonga Domestic Violence Attorney
A mere accusation of family violence can turn your world upside down. You may be immediately hit with a restraining order, preventing you from seeing your family and living in your home. If you have been accused of or charged with household abuse, we urge you to immediately contact our leading Rancho Cucamonga domestic violence lawyers. During your free case analysis, one of our experienced domestic abuse lawyers at the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry could review the details of your case, explain your rights and legal options, and determine what steps would work best in your situation.