If law enforcement has any belief an act of domestic violence may have taken place, they are mandated to take the individual into custody. Therefore, if you face household abuse charges, it is essential to consult with a knowledgeable Santa Ana domestic violence lawyer immediately. At the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry, our top criminal defense attorneys know all too well that allegations of domestic abuse are often false. Accusations can be made out of jealousy, anger, or the desire to prevail in a custody battle. We understand there are two sides to every story and are committed to ensuring your side is heard.
What to Do if You Have Been Accused of Domestic Violence
Domestic abuse accusations are painful, stressful, and frightening. Still, you must remain calm, and provide all required identifying information to law enforcement. However, it is important to remember to avoid answering any questions or discussing the alleged incident. Do not make any statements about the incident or your relationship with your accuser to anyone. You must also refrain from contacting, confronting, or arguing with your accuser. Lastly, it is crucial to seek an attorney in Santa Ana who could represent you in this domestic violence matter.
Penalties for Domestic Abuse
If you are arrested and charged with domestic abuse, the consequences could be immediate and harsh. Some consequences may include a loss of child custody, a restraining order, and a tarnished reputation.
As such, for a misdemeanor DV conviction, penalties include up to one year in jail, informal probation, and fines of up to $1,000. More serious felony convictions can carry penalties of up to four years in prison, felony probation, and substantial fines. Depending on the circumstances of the case, additional penalties may include a restraining order, loss of visitation rights and child custody, loss of the right to possess or own a firearm, a 26-week anger management course, and a 52-week rehabilitation course. A lawyer in Santa Ana could help someone facing domestic violence charges minimize the potential penalties they may be facing.
What are the Legal Defenses for Household Abuse Charges?
Facing charges of household abuse can be frightening and stressful. Your future depends on the outcome of these charges, so it is essential to have competent and aggressive legal representation. One of our skilled defense attorneys in Santa Ana could review your case’s facts and build a proactive, effective strategy against your domestic abuse charges. Several defenses may prove to be appropriate for your case, including but not limited to:
- Acting in self-defense or the defense of others
- The incident in question was an accident
- False accusations
- The alleged injuries were not a result of your actions
- There is not enough evidence to support a conviction
Contact a Leading Santa Ana Domestic Violence Attorneys
If you have been accused of or charged with domestic abuse, you need to remember that you do not have to go through this challenging experience alone. Our skilled Santa Ana domestic violence lawyers could guide you through every step of the process while fighting tirelessly to protect your rights and freedom. Please contact our office today for a free, confidential case analysis.