Crimes that qualify as domestic violence can lead to serious penalties. This includes incarceration, fines, and collateral consequences such as restraining orders and restrictions on child custody. A domestic violence lawyer can help reduce or dismiss the domestic violence charges brought against you.

Domestic Violence Qualifications

In the state of California, domestic violence is not a separate crime. If you committed a crime against someone that you have a family or household relationship with, the crime may qualify as domestic violence. These relationships include current or former spouses, co-parents of a child, fiances, current or former cohabitants, and those who are currently or were previously dating. Domestic violence convictions often face increased penalties.

Domestic violence charges can either be filed as a misdemeanor or a felony. The type of conviction is often influenced by the severity of the victim’s injuries, whether a weapon was involved, and if the crime was aggravated. Both can lead to fines and jail sentences, but the sentences are often worse with a felony conviction. A lawyer may be able to reduce a felony charge to a misdemeanor to avoid more severe penalties. 

Building a Strong Defense

If someone is accusing you of domestic violence, you should reach out to a domestic violence lawyer. A lawyer can help you by:

Creating a Defense Strategy

Our lawyers have experience with domestic violence charges and the arguments that the prosecution could use against you. There are a variety of defense strategies that our lawyers can use to build a strong defense, including:

• Insufficient evidence. This defense argues that there is insufficient evidence to prove that you committed the crime. It is best used in cases where there were no witnesses to the crime, and the claims are unsubstantiated.
• False accusations. Some domestic violence charges are fabricated out of anger or jealousy. This defense strategy involves showing that you did not commit the crime.
• Self-defense. Your lawyer could use this defense if you were protecting yourself when the crime was committed.
• Lack of intent. You cannot be convicted of domestic violence if you hurt the claimant accidentally.

Negotiation and Plea Bargaining

Our main goal as your legal representation is to protect your rights and secure the most favorable outcome possible. If your charges cannot be dismissed, your lawyer may be able to negotiate with the prosecution to secure a plea agreement. These agreements can involve reduced charges or more favorable sentencing options.

Knowledge of the Legal System

Our attorneys have a deep understanding of the legal system. We are familiar with both state and federal laws related to domestic violence charges. We are also familiar with common strategies the prosecution may use against you. This knowledge and experience can help us protect your rights and secure a favorable outcome.

A Domestic Violence Lawyer from Kroger Law Group Can Defend You

Domestic violence crimes can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. These charges often lead to increased penalties, including incarceration, fines, and collateral consequences. If you are facing domestic violence charges in California, a domestic violence lawyer from Kroger Law Group can defend you. We can build a solid defense to help you secure a plea deal or convince the judge to dismiss your charges entirely. Contact us today for a free consultation.