According to the California Penal Code, there are 2 types of domestic violence offenses – domestic battery, and bodily injury to a spouse/cohabitant, or former intimate partner. The first one is charged as a misdemeanor offense, while the second one is charged as a felony offense. Domestic battery is punishable by a fine of up to $2,000, imprisonment for no more than 1 year, or probation for up to 3 years. If the domestic abuse has resulted in “a traumatic condition”, then the defendant could face serious penalties, including a life sentence if the injuries willfully inflicted upon their intimate partner are severe.
If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence charges or an arrest, it’s in your best interest to seek and get proper legal representation as soon as possible. None of the aforementioned offenses should be taken lightly, so if you live in Los Angeles or surrounding areas then hiring a competent and experienced domestic violence lawyer Los Angeles to protect your interests and freedom by aggressively representing you is your best bet. Your skilled domestic violence defense attorney will put together the best defense strategy, focused on having the charges against you dropped. Keep in mind that once the alleged abuse comes to the state’s attention, the only person who is eligible to drop the charges is the District Attorney.
This is why it’s best to choose to retain a reputable criminal defense attorney who has not only successfully handled thousands of domestic violence cases but who is also a former District Attorney and has the necessary inside knowledge. Insufficient evidence, contradicting statements made by the defendant’s partner, no visible injuries, and no independent witnesses are among the reasons the state prosecutor who is working on the case may drop the charges. If the prosecutor doesn’t drop the charges, then your skilled defense lawyer will continue to aggressively defend you in court. Representing yourself in court is never a good idea because you are knowingly risking your freedom for possibly many years and even for life.
If you or a loved one is charged with domestic violence, do not hesitate to get in touch with the Law Offices of Hart J. Levin by phone at (310) 986-2030 or by filling out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with Los Angeles domestic violence defense lawyer and former prosecutor Hart J. Levin who will discuss your domestic violence case with you and the best course of action to protect you.